Building a Portfolio Website: What I've Learned So Far 💻💜

I’ve been working on this website since October 2024, editing and refining it almost every day. What started as a simple collection of my volunteering experiences has grown into a professional portfolio that continues to evolve — more accessible, more concise, and more dynamic with every update. For me, this site isn’t just a digital CV; it’s an ongoing project that reflects my development as an emerging museum and heritage professional.

💡 1. A portfolio is never truly finished

When I first started building my site, I thought of it as something I’d complete and move on from. In reality, a portfolio grows with you. Every new volunteering opportunity, case study, or training experience adds another layer. Keeping the site active — through small edits, accessibility improvements, or layout changes — helps it stay relevant and professional.

♿ 2. Accessibility should come first, not last

I’ve learned how important it is to make every section of the site easy to navigate and read. That means using descriptive alt text for images, clear headings, legible fonts, and a logical structure. I've added a Wix app called Access Pro Accessibility Plugin which creates a button on the live website with the symbol of accessibility (a cartoon person with arms and legs out on a green background). This pop up has multiple options appropriate to most if not all access needs, such as: larger font, higher contrast with colours, reader help (helpful for people with ADHD and other options for blindness), screen reader and even removes animation, images, and videos.

Accessibility isn’t an afterthought — it’s part of good communication. It ensures that my work can reach everyone, regardless of how they access the site. I've create a hidden page linked via footer to your Accessibility Statement with your contact details for any inquiries or suggestions on improvements.

🪶 3. Keep content concise and intentional

Over time, I’ve rewritten many sections to be more focused and reflective. It’s easy to include every detail of your experience, but I’ve found that short, clear descriptions are much more effective. A concise summary makes an immediate impact — especially for museum professionals, curators, or recruiters reviewing multiple portfolios.

🖼️ 4. Visual storytelling matters

Images bring curatorial and collections-based work to life. I’ve learned how to use photographs, display shots, and process documentation carefully — not just as decoration, but as part of the story. Every image has a purpose: to highlight process, skill, or interpretation.

🎯 5. It’s part of the job search strategy

My website has become a key tool in my job search. It demonstrates not just what I’ve done, but how I think, write, and present information. Each update — whether it’s a new case study, volunteer reflection, or layout change — makes it more effective in representing me as a professional. I’ve designed it to be easy to navigate for potential employers, showing both consistency and creativity in how I present my experience.

I recommend adding a link on your CV to your portfolio or website to increase engagement and to display your work in more detail.

🧩 Final Thoughts

Building a portfolio website has taught me more than I expected — about communication, accessibility, and design, but also about self-reflection and growth. It’s a creative process that mirrors the work I enjoy most in museums: organising, interpreting, and making information engaging and accessible to everyone.

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✨ Learn more about my work and aspirations here: My Portfolio