food for thought

  1. The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls. Pablo Picasso
  2. Art is not what you see, but what you make others see. Edgar Degas
  3. No great artist ever sees things as they really are. If he did, he would cease to be an artist. Oscar Wilde
  4. To send light into the darkness of men's hearts - such is the duty of the artist. Schumann
  5. The art of art, the glory of expression and the sunshine of the light of letters, is simplicity. Walt Whitman

May 22, 2025

12. The Home Page (The Website/The Personal Web Page)

The communicative purposes of the artist’s personal home page include
·         informing the public about the artist’s practice(s), experience, creative endeavors,
·         self-promoting,  advertising for own exhibitions, works, and blog,
·          marketing oneself (with the final business goal of selling works),
·         increasing visibility in the art world, creating an online identity as an artist (as opposed to being part of a network, like in the case of the services of social networking; of course, the artist may well choose to be part of these, too),
·          establishing contact with possible buyers (either directly or through the galleries representing the artists).

NOTE: the homepage is the first page (a kind of cover page) of the website. The site's web pages are accessed by clicking the provided menu buttons.

the moves

M1. Identifying the artist (through his/her name, and sometimes the type: e.g. painter, sculptor, etc.)  
M2. Introducing the contents list of the site (through a navigation menu) 
M.3.  Biography + credentials (as very short biographical details and a short text relevant for the type of art s/he creates; sometimes even an artist statement may be offered; also present is the list of exhibitions and awards)
M.4. Current and upcoming events (advertising for ongoing and future exhibitions or other events, by also offering exact information about location and time) 
M.5. “Bibliography” (actually a number of texts written by critics about the artist’s works and exhibitions; sometimes there may also be offered some exhibition catalogs; seldom, there are even texts produced by the artist) 
M.6. Online gallery +/- shop (images of the works produced by the artist +/- accompanying texts describing them, their location, the exhibition where they were displayed; when the artist uses the site as an online shop as well, the facility of buying the work are also offered here, or, in the case of represented artists, there may be a link to the site of the representing gallery) 
M.7. Establishing contact (address, e-mail, links to the representing galleries).

The lexical and semantic particularities of the artist's personal page differ from those of the blog in the use of the third person, as opposed to the first, signaling a lack of a “conversation” with the audience; instead, the artists prefer to display the credentials here as a list of exhibitions and awards (the longer, the better), and the texts art critics wrote about them (of course, the one praising the works); very short texts are offered under the form of exhibition labels, accompanying the images and informing about the work of art shown in that image.

            In conclusion, the artist’s personal page is both an informative and an advertising genre.

Task: Why should artists have their own websites/home pages? 
Deadline: May 28




5 comments:

  1. For artists, a personal website is very critical in this digital age. It serves as their professional place in the online world where they can display their works, tell their stories, and advance their careers. This is different from social media because on a personal homepage artists will have full control over the presentation of their art and identity.
    The homepage normally tells the visitor who the artist is by name and area of art (for example, painting or sculpting). It usually has a clear menu that shows where to go for biography, gallery, exhibitions, contact info, and other pages.
    A main reason for the website is telling people about the artist’s history using short bios, lists of shows, awards, and sometimes artist statements. This chosen info helps visitors know the artist’s work and qualifications.
    Another key function is self-promotion. Artists can publicize present and forthcoming exhibitions, projects, or events, increasing their visibility and standing in the art world.
    This is an online gallery that exhibits images of works along with their descriptions and histories of exhibitions. Other artists place an online shop or links to galleries so buyers can find the work and purchase it without much effort.
    Critical texts or reviews add a Bibliography section that adds depth and credibility to the body of work.
    Contact facilitates communication with collectors, curators, or collaborators by providing e-mail and gallery links.
    Social media gives you quick visibility but a personal website sticks around. It allows artists to craft a professional identity, showcase their works properly, and facilitates direct sales.
    An artist’s website is crucial for marketing, communication, and building a career. It offers independence to the artist and global reach.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Artists should have their own websites or home pages because it’s one of the best ways to share their work and build a strong, professional presence online. While social media is great for quick updates, a personal website gives artists full control over how they present themselves and their art. It’s like having your own virtual gallery where people can learn about who you are, what you do, and see a curated collection of your work all in one place.
    A homepage acts as your first impression. It lets visitors know what kind of artist you are, guides them through the rest of your site, and gives them easy access to your bio, past exhibitions, upcoming events, and more. It’s also a great space to show off any press or reviews, and if you’re selling your work or taking commissions, it makes it easy for potential buyers to get in touch.
    In short, having a website helps you stand out, makes you easier to find, and shows that you take your art seriously. Whether you’re just starting out or already established, it’s a smart and simple way to support your creative career.

    ReplyDelete

  3. Artists should have a blog because it allows them to share the stories behind their work, connect with their audience on a deeper level, and build a personal brand beyond just visuals. A blog offers a space to explain creative processes, show the progress you re making, announce upcoming events, and reflect on artistic growth. It also improves online visibility, helping new audiences discover the artist’s work. Ablog is a powerful tool for artists to express their voice, attract opportunities, and establish a lasting presence in the art community.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Artists should have their own websites or home pages because it gives them a professional space to show their work, tell their story, and connect directly with their audience. Unlike social media, a personal website allows artists to choose how their work is displayed, styled and organized. Also, a clean, well organized website makes an artist look serious and professional. Curators, galleries, and collectors often expect to see a portfolio online.

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  5. Moldovan Andreea 3rd photo-video
    Artists should have their own websites or home pages because it gives them full control over how their work is presented to the world. Unlike social media platforms, which limit design and prioritize algorithms, a personal website allows artists to create a professional, customized space that reflects their unique style and vision. It becomes a central hub where potential buyers, galleries, or collaborators can easily explore a curated portfolio, artist statement, contact info, and even a store, all in one place, free from distractions.
    Additionally, a website enhances credibility and visibility. Having a well-organized, regularly updated site can improve search engine rankings, making it easier for people to discover your work online. It shows commitment and seriousness about your art practice, helping build trust with your audience. Whether you're applying for exhibitions, selling art, or seeking commissions, a website acts as a digital business card that speaks on your behalf, anytime, anywhere.

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