Name of your website?It's World Art
Your name?
Irma Adams
Your Location (city, etc)
Bedford, Eastern Cape
When did you start your website and why?
I know how difficult it is to be an emerging artist – I’ve been there myself. Great talent only takes you so far, but it doesn't necessarily find you buyers. I have started the development of this website about 2 years ago, because I have a passion for artists that are very talented, but are struggling to make a living from their art. I want to make the marketing and selling of art a little easier for artists, so that they would spend more time creating artwork, and less time trying to sell what they create.
Please give us a short summary of your website, business model, etc
ItsWorldArt gives an opportunity for artists to manage and sell their art online - without the middle man. The artists on the site have their own website (and domain name), where they upload art, publish articles, advertise events and exhibitions, and manage their fans and mailing lists. ItsWorldArt also provides recourses to help them with their art business. ItsWorldArt don't take any commissions from sales, neither do the artist pay hosting, advertising or domain name fees. We only ask a small monthly subscription fee. Artist are also welcome to test the site by opening a free gallery where they can upload as many artworks they want - totally free.
What has been the most difficult part of creating and running your website?
I think the most difficult part was to create the software that allows the artists to have total control from the backend of their sites. Artists even have the ability to manage the Website optimization of their individual sites. We are currently working on a choice of “skins” where the artists can uniquely customise their own individual sites.
What has been the easist part of operating your website?
The easiest part of this business is the fact that I work with artists. I am one myself, and I totally understand the difficulties of trying to be a good productive artist combined with being an excellent sales person to promote myself. Most artists I know don't do both very well, and that is where the website will help them!
What was your biggest mistake?
My biggest mistake was not developing this website sooner. It would have saved me a lot of frustration and heartache!
Who maintains your website and why?
I am the webmaster of ItsWorldArt, and I deal with every enquiry myself. The reason for this is that ItsWorldArt is my passion, not just a business. I love to be able to help other artists!
Tell us how your business has benefitted from your website?
My business is my website.
What are your views on ecommerce and the future of the internet?
Ecommerce, when it is properly and safely utilized, could be an extremely useful tool. The fact is, more people are wising up to the benefits of the internet. You either utilize this, or loose out on a lot of potential business.
What are your views on Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?
This is the most important part of having a successful website. Without Search Engine Optimization, visitors and potential art buyers won't find you on the internet.
What are your views on Search Engines? Have they helped or hindered your website?
Search Engines are the way millions of people browse the internet. It is best to use them to your benefit, it you wish to be successful. Most search engines give you a pretty detailed guideline on how to optimize your site for visitors to find you. If all else fails, read the instructions;)
What method has been most successful for promoting your website?
First of all, providing the best service possible to the Artists that are already on my website. I found that a good name and reputation goes a very long way!
What method has been least successful for promoting your website?
The least successful way for promoting my website was stepping into the same trap so many before me did. And that is by listening to the thousands of companies on the internet that will get your site "on google's first page". The trouble with many of them is that they don't always play by the rules, and could get your website banned from major search engines.
What would you like to see change with respect to the internet?
I would love search engines to give more content-related results when you look for something.
What is your website address?
It's World Art
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