The internet has become an invaluable tool for a myriad of businesses and entrepreneurs who are looking to make their mark in the world. This also applies to budding and experienced artists who would like to sell their artwork without the need for galleries or having their own studio.

And, just because your name isn't yet widely known throughout the worldwide web that doesn't mean your style of art isn't in high demand or that you wouldn't be able to make a lucrative living selling your work online. But, in order to do that you have to start spreading the word and be able to set yourself apart from the numerous competition, many of which have the same dreams and goals of becoming a renowned artist.

Starting Your Own Website

If you want to be taken seriously you've got to have your own website, which means having your own domain name (www.yourname.com) and not using a free site to showcase your artwork. There are several web hosting services with reasonable monthly or yearly rates that also feature web design tools to make it simple to get your website up and running.

Avoid the urge to pepper your site with personal items, like pictures of the dog or kids. Save these things for a blog, or for your free site, and not the one you intend on doing business with if you want to be viewed as an artist and not just someone with a fun hobby. Join community sites for artists with forums and message boards to connect with other like-minded people as well as social networking sites like Facebook or Twitter.

On your site, be sure to use crystal clear pictures of your art that will load quickly for people stopping by to visit and browse. Each piece should have an accompanying price as well as detailed instructions as to how to go about purchasing an item and how to contact you. It's also good idea to include a question form or link to your email address and encourage visitors to inquire about your work, making sure you get back in touch with each prospective buyer as soon as possible, of course.

In addition to images of your work, you'll want to have plenty of text on your site including relevant keywords as search engines such as Google or Yahoo won't be able to find it and index it otherwise. Talk in the first person to your audience, share the inspiration behind each piece, along with a name or title and people will feel more connected to you and therefore, more likely to buy your art. On the other hand, be careful not to be too wordy as you won't want to bore the reader before they have a chance to appreciate your work.

You'll also want to include a few useful links to other sites on topic, note the word "few" as too many links and distractions will take away from the main purpose, which is selling your creations and not being a portal to lead people away from the site.

If you don't already have an eBay account, you may want to consider getting one and listing a few of your pieces as you might be pleasantly surprised at the number of artists who make a lucrative living there and through similar auction sites.

Other sites for artists include Zazzle.com or Etsy.com for those who sell handcrafted pieces including everything from knitted sweaters to unique jewelry to furniture where users can both sell and buy.