Artists have unprecedented access to resources, inspiration, and opportunities online.
Regardless of whether you’re a painter, photographer, graphic designer, illustrator, or creative professional, the internet offers a wealth of platforms to showcase your work, learn new skills, connect with fellow artists, and advance your career.
This comprehensive guide explores 25 essential websites that can transform how you create, share, and grow as an artist.
Read it to the end.
1. Behance
Owned by Adobe, Behance is more than just a portfolio website. It’s a global community for creative professionals.
Artists can showcase their work across multiple disciplines, from graphic design and illustration to photography and digital art.
The platform allows for detailed project uploads, enables networking with other creatives, and provides exposure to potential clients and employers.
Key Features:
- Free portfolio creation
- Professional networking
- Job and freelance opportunity listings
- Ability to follow and interact with other artists
Explore more sites like Behance.
2. DeviantArt
A veteran of online art communities, DeviantArt has been connecting artists since 2000. It offers a diverse platform for artists of all skill levels and mediums.
Beyond showcasing artwork, it provides forums, art challenges, tutorials, and a supportive community environment.
Highlights:
- Wide range of art categories
- Critique and feedback opportunities
- Print-on-demand services
- Art contests and community challenges
Explore platforms similar to Deviantart.
3. ArtStation
Specifically tailored for digital artists, game designers, and concept artists, ArtStation has become the go-to platform for professional artists in entertainment industries.
It’s particularly popular among those working in video games, film, and animation.
Standout Features:
- Industry-specific portfolio presentation
- Job board for creative professionals
- Learning resources and workshops
- Marketplace for digital assets
Also Read: Best ArtStation Alternatives
4. Skillshare
More than just a website, Skillshare is an online learning community where artists can both learn and teach.
With thousands of video classes covering everything from traditional painting techniques to digital design software, it’s an invaluable resource for continuous learning.
Learning Opportunities:
- Classes taught by industry professionals
- Project-based learning approach
- Affordable monthly subscription
- Wide range of creative disciplines
5. Society6
An e-commerce platform that allows artists to monetize their artwork by selling it on various products.
From wall art and phone cases to clothing and home decor, artists can transform their designs into marketable merchandise.
Monetization Benefits:
- No upfront costs
- Global shipping
- Passive income potential
- Artist retains rights to their work
6. Dribbble
A community-driven platform primarily focused on graphic design, UI/UX design, and illustration.
Dribbble is known for its “shots”—small screenshots of designers’ work that provide glimpses into creative processes.
Community Advantages:
- Inspiration gallery
- Professional networking
- Job opportunities
- Peer feedback
Find out more sites like Dribble here.
7. Pinterest
While not exclusively an artist’s platform, Pinterest is an incredible source of inspiration and visual discovery.
Artists can create mood boards, find reference images, and share their own work across various creative niches.
Creative Uses:
- Mood board creation
- Visual research
- Trend spotting
- Portfolio presentation
Check Out: Best Pinterest Alternatives
8. LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com)
A professional learning platform offering high-quality video courses in creative software, techniques, and professional development.
Courses are taught by industry experts and cover a wide range of artistic skills.
Professional Development:
- Expert-led courses
- Software tutorials
- Career advancement resources
- Certificates of completion
9. Instagram
Social media’s visual-first platform has become crucial for artists to build personal brands, showcase portfolios, and connect with potential clients and fans globally.
Networking Power:
- Visual storytelling
- Direct client interaction
- Hashtag discoverability
- Stories and Reels for dynamic content
10. Patreon
Patreon is a membership platform that enables artists to receive financial support directly from their fans and followers.
It’s particularly useful for creators producing ongoing content like illustrations, comics, or digital art.
Funding Features:
- Recurring revenue model
- Exclusive content creation
- Direct fan support
- Tiered membership levels
Also Read: Best Patreon Pages
11. Blender Guru
A free learning resource specifically for 3D artists and animators using Blender, offering comprehensive tutorials and skill development opportunities.
Learning Resources:
- Detailed 3D art tutorials
- Free and premium content
- Software mastery
- Community support
12. Etsy
Etsy is an e-commerce platform ideal for artists selling handmade, vintage, and unique digital products. It’s great for illustrators, designers, and craft-based artists.
Selling Opportunities:
- Global marketplace
- Low entry barriers
- Diverse product categories
- Built-in customer base
Also Read: Pros & Cons of Selling on Etsy
13. Artfinder
Artfinder is an online marketplace specifically curated for original artworks, helping artists sell paintings, prints, and other artistic creations.
Art Sales Platform:
- Curated artwork selection
- Global shipping
- Direct artist sales
- Professional presentation
14. Udemy
An online learning platform with extensive creative courses covering everything from traditional art techniques to digital design.
Educational Resources:
- Affordable courses
- Lifetime access
- Wide range of skills
- Self-paced learning
15. Creative Boom
Creative Boom is an online magazine and resource hub offering inspiration, advice, and opportunities for creative professionals.
Industry Insights:
- Artist interviews
- Career advice
- Trend reporting
- Creative inspiration
16. Artsy
A comprehensive online platform that bridges the gap between art collectors, galleries, and artists.
Artsy provides a sophisticated marketplace and educational resource for visual artists across multiple mediums.
Key Features:
- Global art marketplace
- Gallery partnerships
- Art market insights
- Auction information
- Portfolio exposure for professional artists
17. Domestika
An online learning platform specializing in creative courses with a strong international community.
Offering courses in multiple languages, Domestika provides affordable, high-quality tutorials across various artistic disciplines.
Learning Advantages:
- Affordable creative courses
- Multilingual content
- Self-paced learning
- Certificate of completion
- Diverse course offerings from global instructors
18. Redbubble
Redbubble is a print-on-demand marketplace that allows artists to upload designs and sell them across a wide range of products.
Unlike some other platforms, Redbubble offers extensive product customization and global shipping.
Monetization Benefits:
- No upfront costs
- Wide product range
- Global marketplace
- Artist retains full creative control
- Passive income potential
19. ArtPal
A free gallery and marketplace specifically designed for artists to sell their original artwork, prints, and digital creations.
ArtPal offers a user-friendly platform with minimal barriers to entry.
Sales Platform Features:
- Free artist account
- No listing fees
- Print-on-demand services
- Multiple art categories
- Direct artist-to-collector sales
20. Foundation
Foundation is a blockchain-based platform for digital artists, particularly those working with NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens). It provides a space for digital creators to mint, sell, and auction unique digital artworks.
Digital Art Innovations:
- Blockchain art marketplace
- Direct artist monetization
- Digital art authentication
- Crypto payment options
- Community of digital innovators
Conclusion
These wonderful websites are gateways to global communities, learning resources, and potential career advancement.
By strategically utilizing these websites, artists can:
- Expand their skills
- Build professional networks
- Find inspiration
- Monetize their creativity
- Stay updated on industry trends
Explore, experiment, and let these platforms fuel your artistic journey.
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