The top-level domain (.GALLERY) is an Internet category specific for galleries. Top level domains are the domains at the highest level in the hierarchical Domain Name System of the Internet. In essence, the .GALLERY top-level domain (TLD) is meant for use by online galleries, both of artistic and photographic nature.
The introduction of .GALLERY as a domain suffix aims to offer galleries, whether they be art, photo, performance or other, a digital arena to showcase their work and make it accessible on a global scale. As per ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), the body that regulates domain naming protocols on the internet, this domain was delegated on 23rd April 2013 along with several other new TLDs.
This TLD is managed by Donuts Inc., one of the world’s largest domain name registrars. According to Donuts Inc., the .GALLERY domain offers “a specialized, identifiable TLD perfect for galleries, critics, artists, or anyone connected to art industry who wants to help develop an online art network.” This domain is categorized open, meaning any person, business or organisation can register a .GALLERY domain.
A couple of examples of sites that use the .GALLERY domain include roseart.gallery, an online art gallery showcasing the work of artist Linda Le Kinff, and photon.gallery, a contemporary art platform from Budapest. These sites encapsulate the broad usage of the .GALLERY domain, signaling a shift from traditional .COM domains towards more industry-specific TLDs.
The choice of a .GALLERY domain makes more sense for businesses that directly deal with gallery works. It immediately signals what the nature of the business is and can also help in search engine optimization as the domain itself becomes a keyword.
To register a .GALLERY domain, one can go through any of the ICANN-accredited domain name registrars. Some of these include GoDaddy, Namecheap, Bluehost, and others. It’s essential, though, to check and confirm the domain’s availability before registration.
Moreover, it is wise to bear in mind that acquiring a domain does not automatically give possession over similar or related other TLDs. For instance, owning ‘example.gallery’ does not mean you also own ‘example.com’ or ‘example.net’.
In conclusion, the .GALLERY TLD offers a unique digital branding opportunity for art galleries, critics, artists or anyone connected to the art industry interested in carving out a distinct online presence.
Sources:
1. ICANN – Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers – https://lookup.icann.org/lookup
2. Donuts Inc. – https://donuts.domains/
3. NameCheap – https://www.namecheap.com/
4. GoDaddy – https://www.godaddy.com/
5. Bluehost – https://www.bluehost.com/
6. roseart.gallery – http://www.roseart.gallery/
7. photon.gallery – https://www.photon.gallery/
