I mentioned yesterday that I reviewed some stats and discovered that the most visited pages on an artist's website are:
1. The About the Artist Page
2. The list of galleries that carry the artist's work
3. A page showing available artwork
This means that your About the Artist page should be high on your list of important pages to update and keep current.
I would suggest thinking of your "About the Artist" page as an overview of who you are, what you're currently working on, and a guide to your web site. Don't think of it as something that you write once and then mark off of your "to do" list. Update it with your current projects, link to your favorite pieces on your site, include an image or two of current works (that you change often). I also think this evidence shows that the "About the artist" page needs to have a place where you, as the artist, direct your reader to sign up for your email list.
An About the artist page has the ability to direct your visitors to deep areas of your site. Is there an artwork that you’re particulary proud to show? Especially one that shows your "normal" style. Are you having a workshop you want to promote? Have you written a book or article you want people to find? Your About the artist page will get read - don't waste the opportunity to introduce your visitors (particularly first time visitors) to your key site areas.
So what should your About the artist Page include?
Here are a few things we recommend, but would certainly welcome comments and feedback:
* Photo of yourself - people want to know what you look like
* Photo of a current artwork
* Your age - get over it, people like to know how old an artist is
* Your inspiration
* SHORT background
* Summary of current projects, works, shows, workshops (with links to more info for each one)
* Links to special pieces, other areas of your site
* Contact Details: or an obvious link to a contact page
