What should an artist put in their link in bio?
Your portfolio, your shop, and a way to contact you for commissions. That is the minimum. A well-structured link in bio page replaces the need for a full website by putting your best work, store links, and booking info on a single page that loads in seconds. Artists who use dedicated link pages report 3x more commission inquiries than those linking to a generic social profile (Later, 2025).
If people can't find your work from your Instagram or TikTok bio, they move on. A link in bio page makes sure they don't.
Why artists need a dedicated link page
Social platforms limit how you present yourself. Instagram gives you 150 characters and one link. TikTok restricts links to accounts with 1,000+ followers. Your art deserves more context than a single URL to your Etsy shop.
A link in bio page solves three problems at once:
- Discovery: Visitors see your full range of work, not just what the algorithm showed them
- Conversion: Direct paths to buy prints, book commissions, or join your newsletter
- Consistency: One URL that works across every platform, business card, and gallery submission
The alternative is constantly updating your single bio link depending on what you're promoting this week. That approach loses you clicks every time someone lands on a link that's already changed.
Essential blocks for an artist's page
Portfolio gallery
This is your storefront. Add your strongest pieces — not everything you've ever made, just the work that represents where you are now. Eight to twelve pieces is the sweet spot. Enough to show range without overwhelming visitors.
With Linkship, you can add a catalog block with images, titles, and prices. Each piece can link directly to your shop listing or a full-resolution view.
Print shop and originals
Link directly to where people can buy. Whether you sell through Etsy, Shopify, Big Cartel, or your own store, create individual links for your most popular items and a general "shop all" link.
Put your bestsellers at the top. The first two items get the most clicks — this is true across every link in bio platform.
Commission information
If you take commissions, make it obvious. Include:
- What types of commissions you offer (portraits, illustrations, murals, digital art)
- Starting prices or a price range
- Current availability (open, waitlist, closed)
- A direct link to your booking form or inquiry page
A WhatsApp block works well here for artists who prefer direct conversation over forms.
Social profiles
Link every platform where you post work. Instagram, TikTok, Behance, ArtStation, Dribbble, DeviantArt, Pinterest — wherever your audience can find you. Social icons at the top or bottom of your page keep the layout clean without competing with your portfolio.
Newsletter or mailing list
Algorithm changes can tank your reach overnight. An email list is the only audience you truly own. Add a signup link or embed that connects to your Mailchimp, ConvertKit, or Substack.
How to set up your artist page
Create your free account at linkship.cc. Sign in with Google or GitHub — no forms, no credit card.
Choose your artist name as your username. Your page will be at linkship.cc/yourname. Use the same handle you have on Instagram for consistency.
Add a header with your name and medium. Something like "Sarah Chen — Watercolor & Ink" tells visitors exactly what you do in one line.
Add your portfolio catalog. Upload your best work with titles and prices. Link each piece to where it can be purchased.
Add commission details. Use a text block or a dedicated link to your commission sheet with pricing and availability.
Add your shop links. Direct links to Etsy, Shopify, or wherever you sell.
Add social icons. Connect all your platforms so visitors can follow you where they prefer.
Customize your design. Choose colors and fonts that match your artistic brand. Your link page should feel like an extension of your work, not a generic template.
For a detailed walkthrough, see our complete setup guide.
Examples by art type
Visual artists and painters
Focus on high-quality images of finished work. Lead with your portfolio catalog, follow with exhibition dates or gallery links, then your shop. If you show in galleries, add a "current exhibitions" section with dates and locations.
Digital artists and illustrators
Your page should highlight both client work and personal projects. Include links to your process videos on YouTube or TikTok, your Gumroad or Patreon for brushes and tutorials, and a portfolio link for freelance inquiries.
Tattoo artists
Location, booking status, and a portfolio of healed work are non-negotiable. Add your studio address with a map block, your booking link (or waiting list), aftercare instructions, and flash sheets for walk-ins. Include your studio's social account alongside your personal one.
Photographers
Separate your portfolio by category: weddings, portraits, commercial, editorial. Each category gets its own link to a dedicated gallery. Add a booking calendar, pricing guide download, and client testimonials to build trust.
Tips for growing your audience
Update your portfolio monthly. Remove older pieces that no longer represent your skill level. Fresh work signals that you're active and evolving.
Use your QR code. Print it on business cards, postcards, packaging, and gallery labels. Every physical touchpoint is a chance to drive someone to your full catalog. Generate yours with our QR code tool.
Write a bio that sells, not just describes. Instead of "Artist based in Portland," try "Watercolor portraits that capture what photos miss. Commissions open." Use our bio generator if you need help crafting one.
Track what gets clicked. Linkship analytics show which links get the most taps. If your commission page gets more clicks than your shop, consider raising your commission prices — demand is high.
Cross-promote across platforms. When you post a new piece on Instagram, mention your link in bio in the caption. On TikTok, use a pinned comment pointing to your page. Consistency matters.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a website if I have a link in bio page?
Not necessarily. For artists who sell primarily through third-party platforms like Etsy or through commissions, a link in bio page provides enough structure to showcase work, share pricing, and direct people to buy. If you need client portals, SEO-driven blog content, or complex e-commerce, a full website makes sense. Many artists start with a link page and add a website later when their business demands it.
Can I sell art directly from my link in bio?
You can link directly to individual product listings on any platform — Etsy, Shopify, Gumroad, Big Cartel, or your own store. The catalog block in Linkship lets you display products with images and prices, and each item links to wherever the purchase happens. For a deeper dive on selling through your page, see our monetization guide.
How many portfolio pieces should I include?
Between eight and twelve. Enough to demonstrate your range and skill without making visitors scroll endlessly. Quality over quantity. Replace pieces regularly as your work improves.
Is a free link in bio tool enough for artists?
Yes. Linkship's free plan includes all block types — catalog, social links, text, images, WhatsApp, and more. You get analytics, QR codes, and custom domain support without paying. The Pro plan adds features like lifetime analytics and priority support, but most artists find the free plan covers everything they need to get started.