5/8 - Art Biz: Website Essentials

Overview of the Workshops Each session is structured as a two-hour interactive workshop, held once a month, specifically tailored for creative professionals. We focus on topics that matter most to small business owners in creative industries, breaking down complex subjects into manageable, actionable insights. Whether you’re a solo artist, freelance designer, or creative team leader, these workshops will help you master the foundational business skills necessary for long-term success.

Our workshops provide a welcoming environment where creative minds can network, learn, and share experiences. By combining instruction with real-life examples, case studies, and collaborative exercises, attendees will leave each session with practical strategies they can immediately apply to their businesses.

Who Should Attend These workshops are designed for creative professionals of all kinds. Whether you’re a graphic designer starting a freelance career, a painter selling art online, a photographer building a portfolio, or a writer working on independent projects, this series is for you. The content is especially beneficial for those who may not have formal business training but need a stronger grasp of entrepreneurial concepts to achieve sustainable growth.

No prior business experience is required—only a willingness to learn and apply new ideas to your creative venture.

Workshop Format and Approach Each workshop is structured around a central theme or topic, with a blend of theory and practice to ensure attendees understand the subject matter and how to apply it.

• The first hour is typically dedicated to expert instruction, where professionals from various fields provide key insights.
• The second hour focuses on hands-on activities, including group work, individual exercises, and Q&A sessions. This structure helps ensure that the information is retained and put into practice right away.

The workshops are designed to be interactive, with plenty of opportunities for creative professionals to ask questions, share their challenges, and receive personalized feedback. Participants will engage in discussions that not only broaden their understanding of business but also build a community of like-minded creatives.

What You'll Learn

In this "Website Essentials for Creative Entrepreneurs" workshop, you’ll learn how to:

• Define Your Website’s Purpose and Goals – Clarify the purpose of your website, whether it's to showcase a portfolio, sell products, or attract clients, and align it with your business goals.
• Choose the Right Platform – Explore popular website builders and hosting options, identifying which platform best suits your creative business needs and budget.
• Design an Engaging Homepage – Learn key elements to make a strong first impression, such as layout, visuals, and a clear call-to-action to engage visitors right away.
• Showcase Your Work Professionally – Create captivating portfolio pages, galleries, and product listings to highlight your work, making it easy for visitors to browse and purchase.
• Optimize for Mobile and Accessibility – Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and accessible to all users, creating a smooth browsing experience on any device.
• Implement Essential SEO Practices – Discover search engine optimization basics to improve your website’s visibility, making it easier for potential clients to find you online.
• Craft an About and Contact Page – Write an authentic "About" page to share your story and a contact page that makes it easy for potential clients to reach out.
• Add a Blog or News Section – Learn how to incorporate a blog or updates section to share insights, promote events, and keep your audience engaged.
• Integrate E-commerce and Payment Options – Explore simple ways to sell artwork, prints, or other products, and set up secure payment options for a professional online store.
• Track Performance with Analytics – Understand how to use analytics to monitor your website’s performance, gaining insights into visitor behavior and areas for improvement.

Where:

2211 Seminole Drive, 
Studio 269 and 270
Huntsville, AL 35805

When:

2/13/2025 11-1pm