Learning Computer Skills Takes Time and Dedication
Sometimes I wonder how much more I need to learn. In the grand scheme of things, I actually love learning, though nowadays with M.E./CFS it takes me much longer and I make lots more notes! My website is a classic example.
In another world, I would love to just hire a talented web designer to create a beautiful arty site for me and maintain all the behind the scenes stuff that needs to be maintained. But... and I'm sure this is a but for others too, it is expensive and beyond my price range. That doesn't mean that I don't admire their work. Web designers, like artists need to make a living, so I appreciate the prices they charge are comparable to the time and care I put in to my paintings.
I need to earn a living and cover all my expenses. These range from art materials (artist quality is expensive!), marketing, getting my art to various places and to developing my internet presence. So what do you do when your budget is virtually zero? You knuckle down and do it yourself .....and it takes time and a heap of dedication.
I am in the fortunate position that I already have a fairly good grasp of computer technology. The technical language threw me at first though, but gradually through some brilliant "How To" videos on YouTube, excellent helpful forums and a bit of technical advice, I began to understand the structure and workings behind the scenes.
I decided early on that I would keep my site looking as clean and as simple as possible. My art themes are varied and my work is bright and colourful, so a simple surround was all I needed. There are some amazing fancy sites out there on the world wide web, but talking with my customers I learnt they get frustrated when they get lost in a site, or can't get from A to B. It was helpful feedback, so simple it is, and I hope my art makes the website rather than the website making my art!
So, stay tuned as I delve into the nitty gritty of opening a secure shop on line. From my own perspective I will buy from a sole trader on line if I'm confident of their authenticity and professionalism. It is this that I want to portray in my internet presence, from my website right through to my other purchasing avenues like ETSY and my social media art pages.
First and foremost, if you see a painting of mine and think "I would love to have that", I want you to feel confident enough to not only buy from me, but recommend me as well. That is my goal!