Why Artist Websites Still Matter and How to Make Yours Work Harder

Despite what we’re told, websites are not obsolete. Curators still look at them. Gallerists still look at them. Collectors still look at them. Commissioners still look at them.  Quietly. Carefully. Often before they ever contact you. Your website is where people go when they’re deciding whether to take you seriously. Social media shows momentum. Websites show coherence. If your website feels overwhelming, messy, neglected, or like a project you keep putting off, that doesn’t mean you’re behind. It usually means you’ve skipped a step.   Most artists jump straight to design. Templates. Platforms. Fonts. Colours. And they do it before they’ve made the harder, quieter decisions. What actually belongs on here? What am I ready to stand behind? What story am I telling now, not five years ago?  So, today´s episode isn’t about redesigning your website. It’s about preparing for it.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Artist websites still matter - curators, gallerists, commissioners, and collectors actually use them.  Your website isn’t dead. It’s quietly doing its job when the right people are paying attention. Your website is not a performance space, but a catalogue of your strongest thinking. It is not an archive. This is a selection of your best work - If someone only ever saw this work, they should understand the kind of artist you are. I don't want anyone landing on your site and thinking, well, now what? So, decide before you design how people can connect with you. This episode is about deciding what needs to be included on your site. The next one is about shaping. BEST MOMENTS “Ask yourself something important - if someone only saw these pieces, would they understand what kind of artist I am?” “Have a portrait image of yourself, ideally in your studio or somewhere that feels human. Smiley helps, warm helps, approachable helps. People want to know who they're connecting with. They don't need mystery here.” “A blank contact page with just an email address or an Instagram handle doesn't feel welcoming. It feels like a closed door.” PODCAST HOST BIO With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She has sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals. **** Ceri Hand Coaching Membership: Group coaching, live art surgeries, exclusive masterclasses, portfolio reviews, weekly challenges. Access our library of content and resource hub anytime and enjoy special discounts within a vibrant community of peers and professionals. Ready to transform your art career? Join today! https://cerihand.com/membership/ **** Unlock Your Artworld Network Self Study Course Our self-study video course, "Unlock Your Artworld Network," offers a straightforward 5-step framework to help you build valuable relationships effortlessly. Gain the tools and confidence you need to create new opportunities and thrive in the art world today. https://cerihand.com/courses/unlock_your_artworld_network/ **** Book a Discovery Call Today To schedule a personalised 1-2-1 coaching session with Ceri or explore our group coaching options, simply email us at [email protected] **** Discover Your Extraordinary Creativity Visit www.cerihand.com to learn how we can help you become an extraordinary creative. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/