Domain Names for Artists Pack Punch
A domain name’s primary purpose is to add a human readable factor to the numerical address of a website. It is easier to remember BarneyDavey.com than some number such as 97.74.108.xxx. A domain name has advanced uses that permeate through all aspects of modern marketing.
Domain names and real estate share comparisons. Real estate is essentially a plot of land somewhere. The location of real estate can be the difference between dirt-cheap (pun intended) and millions of dollars. While you can buy a new domain for under $10, art.com would cost you multi-millions on the aftermarket.
What Should An Artist Do About Domain Names?
When considering domain names for artists, you need to consider various options. If you are new to launching your own website or blog, then your choices are easier. An artist’s name is both a searchable keyword phrase and a branding component. Your name in your domain name helps with search engine optimization (SEO), and with both online, and offline marketing.
The primary way your collectors will search for you and your work is by your name. Secondarily, they may search for you by the medium you use and the city or region where you live.
Keep Your Artist’s Domain Name Short
Keeping domains short is important, so achieving primary and secondary aims is usually not possible. You can use SEO copywriting throughout your site to get search engine rankings for secondary terms. If your firstnamelastname.com is not available, then include another short descriptor such as barneydaveyartist.com. Use a combination of your creativity and google.com keywords to make this just right.
Don’t Pay Too Much for Your Domain Name
Domain names are a commodity meaning there is no value in paying more for one. I recommend using a low-priced provider such as OptimaWebTools.com. It offers domains for only $8.99 per year for.com domain names, including renewals and transfers. Its prices on other extensions such as .net and org extensions are very competitive. You get a free email address with your domain and 24/7 free phone support.
The Art Print Issues Story
When I launched Art Print Issues in 2005, I did not know the blog would become a business blog for all visual artists, and would eventually extend its editorial well beyond the art print market. I did also launch a website with my name. In retrospect, I should have launched the website and used the subdomain blog.barneydavey.com for my blog. That would have cut down on marketing two domain names, and been less confusing to potential readers not familiar with the blog’s content. I may someday change the name, when I have time.
Domain Name Resources
You can find lots of excellent information on picking and using your artist’s domain name, here are some useful references for you to further your knowledge:
- 12 Rules for Choosing the Right Domain Name
- How to Pick a Domain Name for Your Website
- Domain Search Tool
- How to Change Your Domain Name without Losing Your Rankings
- Domain Name Rules for Artists
- The Value of a Descriptive URL
- Why You Must Own Your Domain Name!
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