What happens when you neglect your artist website?
Working with artists, I’ve visited countless artist websites—and too often, I come across sites that have turned into digital ghost towns. These are active websites with no sign that the artist is still actively working. The telltale signs? The same artwork displayed for over a year, the most recent blog post dating back several years, or an event calendar showing openings that have long passed.
I get why this happens.
Juggling studio time, art creation, and website upkeep can feel overwhelming. Technical issues, updates, and content creation take time, often getting pushed aside in favor of more immediate tasks. But if you want your website to truly represent your practice, it’s crucial not to let it become an afterthought
How to Prevent Your Artist Website from Becoming a Ghost Town
1 – Set a Schedule to Update Regularly
Reserve time each month to review and refresh your site. Even small updates—like uploading a new piece or updating your contact information—keep things looking fresh.
2 – Post Regularly, Even if It’s Brief.
Platforms like Squarespace and WordPress offer simple blogging options, perfect for sharing recent work or news. Consider setting a goal to post at least once every few weeks to share updates, even if it’s just a quick note on what you’re currently working on.
3 – Keep an Eye on Your Events Calendar and Blog.
Avoid outdated event listings and empty blogs by making it a habit to review and archive older entries if they’re no longer relevant. This keeps your site looking current without needing constant additions.
How to Bring Your Artist Website Back to Life
If your website has turned into a ghost town but you’re still active as an artist, here’s how to revive it:
1 – Start with Small Updates
Begin by refreshing your homepage with recent work and a current bio. Adding new artwork and updating your contact details go a long way.
2 – Reactivate your Blog
If you’ve neglected blogging, don’t stress about the gap. Pick it up again and publish new posts, aiming to build up a collection of 10-15 fresh entries before widely promoting the site.
3 – Revamp your Gallery
Refresh your portfolio with your latest work, remove old or irrelevant pieces, and create a streamlined, professional look.
Why Keeping Your Artist Website Current Is Worth It
A current, well-maintained website is one of your most powerful tools for sharing your art. Not only does it allow viewers to see you’re active and dedicated, but it also gives you more control over how your work is presented. Keeping it up to date can make a big difference in creating opportunities and connecting with people who appreciate what you do.
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