Put your art in the spotlight and have fun in the process. Here's a step by step guide to set up a social media account so you can start sharing your art with the world.
Facebook
1. Create an Account
Visit www.facebook.com or download the Facebook app.
Click Sign Up and enter your name, email, and password.
Follow the prompts to complete your profile.
2. Set Up an Artist Page (Recommended for Selling)
On Facebook, click Menu → Pages → Create New Page.
Name it Your Artist Name
Choose a category (e.g., “Artist” or “Visual Arts”).
Upload a profile picture and cover image (your art).
Fill in your bio and contact info.
3. Start Posting
Share photos of your work, process videos, or upcoming events.
Post once or twice a week to stay active.
Engage by replying to comments and joining NZ artist groups.
Instagram
1. Download the Instagram App
On your smartphone or tablet, go to the Apple App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Google Play Store (Android).
Search for Instagram and tap Download or Install.
Once installed, tap the Instagram app icon to open it.
2. Create an Account
Tap Sign Up.
Choose Sign up with email or phone number (if you have Facebook, you can also sign up using that).
Enter your email address or phone number and tap Next.
Create a username (e.g., YourNameArt or FirstnameSurnameArtist).
Set a password and tap Next.
Add your full name (or artist name) and tap Next.
Choose your birthday (Instagram requires this for security but won’t show it publicly).
Tap Sign Up.
3. Optimise Your Profile
Go to your Profile Page (tap the person icon at the bottom right).
Tap Edit Profile to update your details:
Profile Picture – Use a clear photo of yourself or one of your artworks.
Name – Your artist name or full name.
Username – This is how people find you (e.g., @FirstnameSurnameArt).
Bio – A short description about you (e.g., “NZ Watercolour Artist | Inspired by nature | Commissions Open”).
Website – Add your portfolio link, online shop, or Facebook page.
Tap Done to save.
4. Start Following People
Tap the Search icon (magnifying glass) at the bottom.
Type in names of artists, galleries, or art groups to follow.
Follow local artists in New Zealand by searching for #NZArtist or #HandmadeNZ.
Engage with others by liking and commenting on their posts.
5. Create Your First Post
Tap the + (plus) icon at the bottom.
Choose a photo of your artwork or a work-in-progress image.
Tap Next and apply optional filters (or leave it as is).
Write a caption (e.g., "New oil painting inspired by Nelson’s coast!").
Add hashtags to help more people find your post (e.g., #NZArtist #Watercolour #ArtLover).
Tap Share to publish your post.
6. Explore Stories & Reels (Optional)
Instagram Stories – Short updates that disappear after 24 hours. Great for behind-the-scenes content.
Reels – Short videos (15-30 seconds) that get more reach. Try recording a painting time-lapse or a studio tour.
7. Stay Active & Engaged
Post at least 2-3 times per week to stay visible.
Respond to comments and messages to build relationships.
Follow and support other NZ artists to grow your community.
TikTok
1. Create an Account
Download TikTok (Apple App Store or Google Play).
Open the app and tap Sign Up.
Use your email or phone number to register.
2. Optimise Your Profile
Choose a username (e.g., @YourNameArt).
Add a bio (e.g., “Painter in NZ | Sharing Art & Inspiration”).
Link to your Instagram or website.
3. Start Posting Videos
Tap + to record or upload a video.
Keep it short (15-30 sec) – time-lapses, painting reveals, or tips.
Add music or voiceover.
Use hashtags like #ArtTikTok #NZArtist #PaintingTime.
4. Engage & Grow
Follow art-related accounts.
Comment on other artist’s videos.
Post 2-3 times a week for the best reach.
Pinterest
1. Create an Account
Visit www.pinterest.com or download the Pinterest app.
Click Sign Up and enter your email and password.
Choose Business Account for better analytics.
2. Optimise Your Profile
Upload a profile picture (your logo or art).
Write a bio with keywords (e.g., “NZ Watercolour Artist | Nature & Landscape Art”).
Add a website link if you have one.
3. Start Pinning Your Art
Click Create Pin.
Upload an image of your artwork.
Add a title & description with keywords (e.g., "NZ Seascape Oil Painting – Available for Sale").
Link to your website or online store.
Pin it to a relevant board (e.g., "My Artwork" or "Landscape Paintings").
4. Engage & Grow
Follow other NZ artists.
Repin inspiring content.
Post at least once a week to stay active.
Final Tips for All Platforms
Set a time limit – 15-30 mins per day is enough.
Quality over quantity – It’s better to post less often but with great content.
Use links – Always direct people to your website, shop, or contact page.
Experiment & enjoy – Social media should feel fun, not stressful!
