How to Build a Digital Portfolio
(And why it might be more useful than you think)
If the phrase “digital portfolio” makes you want to shut down and hide in your studio, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many artists are far more comfortable with brushes, clay, or cameras than they are with tech platforms.
But here’s the thing: a digital portfolio is different from your regular website.
Your website might be a big-picture home base with a bio, shop, or event updates.
Your portfolio is a focused collection of your work, curated and easy to share when someone says, “Can you send me examples?”
And the best part? A digital portfolio doesn’t have to be fancy. It could be:
A simple page on your existing website
A standalone mini-site (Squarespace, Wix, etc.) with its own URL
Or a PDF made in Canva or Google Slides that you update as needed and send directly to opportunities
The point isn’t how slick the format is. It’s that you have a way to present your art quickly, clearly, and confidently when it matters.
Why (and When) You Might Need a Digital Portfolio
A digital portfolio is essentially your calling card online or on your desktop. Having one ready saves you from scrambling when someone asks to see your work. Here are a few scenarios:
Applying for opportunities (residencies, grants, fellowships, teaching jobs): A curated PDF portfolio is often easiest to upload or email.
Selling to new audiences (collectors, galleries, buyers): An online portfolio gives them something to browse anytime, without waiting for you to reply.
Collaborations and commissions: Designers, businesses, or community partners may prefer a quick link, though sometimes a project-specific PDF is best.
Credibility and confidence: Having something polished (even simple) shows professionalism and makes it easier for people to recommend you.
Think of it this way: your website is your storefront, but your portfolio is the box of samples you carry with you.
Five Tips for Building a Digital Portfolio That Works
1. Start simple. Don’t overthink it
Your portfolio doesn’t need to be flashy. In fact, simple is usually better.
Begin with just 6–10 strong pieces of work, your name, a short artist statement, and your contact info. That’s it.
Tools to try: Squarespace, Wix, Canva sites, or even a free Notion page. For a PDF option, Canva or Google Slides work beautifully.
2. Choose quality over quantity
You don’t need to upload everything you’ve ever made. Select pieces that:
Represent your current style and direction
Show a range (but still feel cohesive)
Highlight your best work
Pro tip: If you’re applying to something specific (like a teaching job or grant), a PDF portfolio curated for that audience works best.
3. Make it easy to navigate
Whether online or PDF, people should be able to find what they need in 2–3 clicks (or swipes). Organize your work into clear categories:
Painting, photography, sculpture
Projects vs. commissions
Personal work vs. collaborations
Keep menus short. If it feels confusing, it probably is.
4. Tell the story behind the work
Images alone are powerful, but context creates connection. Include short captions that answer one of these questions:
What inspired this piece?
What’s unique about the process?
How might someone imagine it in a space?
A sentence or two is plenty. Works for both online captions and PDF text blocks.
5. Include a clear way to contact you
Don’t bury your email at the bottom or expect people to message you on Instagram.
Have a visible “Contact” button on your website OR a page in your PDF with your details.
Example: “I welcome commissions, collaborations, and exhibition inquiries. Reach me at [your email].”
Final Thought
Your digital portfolio doesn’t have to be complicated; it just has to exist. Start small, choose a format that fits your needs (online or PDF), and grow it over time.
Remember: it’s not about perfection, it’s about accessibility. You’re making it easier for people to say “yes” to your art.
Create freely. Share easily.
