The google ad words seems to really call itself out. It's really the only place you've used such a dark color in the design so it creates an unbalance. Also, do they have one that would fit your column a little better? The width of it seems too thin where it's at.
Possibly a little more breathing room in areas. Things seem really tight up against the edges and it can create a very busy look.
I love the color and art style, I think it fits your style well.
I noticed this as I was typing, and I don't think it's too critical - The search / mail / rss feed icons at the top right could maybe be pulled up to line up more with the logo and then the categories / tags box could be brought up in line with the navigation area.
There is a lot going on on the page. The primary focus items are not related to your end result goals of making a conversion. It is a pretty design, but you should create a stronger path to lead visitors.
After checking out Ari's DevArt profile and getting a feel for what she can do, I gotta say this one is up there in the style department. Good use of colors and photo manips make this a great navigation centerpiece for her collects of excellent art. The pages are clearly laid out with good hand written categories, tags and essentials. I really cont much I'd change about this site except advertising spots. This site is about you. Make it only you. It'll be more effective toward opportunities. This design gets the highest marks in my young CFB career. Bravo
Thanks, good idea about the advertising spot, hm..... I might just put it only on the blog page. Thanks for the highest marks in your young CFB career ;)
Though I think this works and looks fairly nice, You have a very busy design here. I would try and tone it down quite a bit. The handwritten navigation looks a bit random and out of place. Other than that, I think this is a great start.
thanks, it does look a bit busy. I'll see what I can do on it. :)
Yeah, I noticed that after a while, I'm thinking to change the it to plain colors. I'll also look if there's one that has wider column. I'm considering your idea of bringing categories / tags box up a bit, thanks a lot ;)