The .art domain zone is specifically designed for individuals, organizations, and businesses involved in the arts. This includes artists, galleries, museums, art dealers, and cultural institutions. The primary purpose of the .art domain is to create a dedicated online space for the global art community, facilitating better visibility and accessibility for art-related content.
The .art domain was launched in 2017 as part of the new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) introduced by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). The initiative aimed to expand the domain name system and provide more options for users. The .art domain was developed by a consortium of art professionals and organizations, including the Art and Creative Industries Association (ACIA), to cater specifically to the needs of the art community.
The .art domain is managed by the .art registry, which is operated by the company Art-Domains. This organization is responsible for overseeing the registration process and maintaining the integrity of the domain zone. The management of the .art domain is subject to oversight by ICANN, which ensures compliance with international standards and regulations for domain name registration.
Anyone can register a .art domain name, provided they adhere to the registration policies set forth by the registry. There are no specific restrictions based on citizenship or location; however, registrants must comply with the general terms and conditions of the registry. The procedure for obtaining a .art domain typically involves the following steps:
The .art domain supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDN), allowing users to register domain names in various scripts and languages. The following technical parameters apply:
As with many domain zones, the .art domain has faced challenges related to abuse, including spam and phishing attempts. However, the registry has implemented several security measures to mitigate these risks:
The .art domain has seen a steady increase in the number of registered domains since its launch. As of October 2023, there are over 100,000 registered .art domains. The cost of registration typically ranges from $20 to $50 per year, depending on the registrar and any additional services offered. Premium domains, which are considered highly desirable due to their short length or keyword relevance, may be priced significantly higher.
The .art domain zone serves as a vital online resource for the global art community, offering a dedicated space for artists and organizations to showcase their work and connect with audiences. With its robust registration policies, technical features, and commitment to security, the .art domain is positioned as a reputable choice for anyone involved in the arts.