The Berlin arts scene is beautiful and full of interesting and emerging talent, which is why getting Your name out there can be challenging. With the right approach, and the right community to support You, You can establish a presence (and a large following) in the arts scene.
Here is part one (of two) of our marketing guide to help You get Your name out there.
Where businesses are finding new audiences online, and with interesting connections constantly being made, it’s almost non-negotiable that You use social media to get Your name out there. Even better, You should utilise video-based platforms like YouTube and TikTok, where You can share Your performances, behind-the-scenes moments, and Your personal insights. It’s time to maximise Your outreach.
If You think You have something interesting to share, share it. Whether it’s a clip of Your performance, a practice session, an update about an upcoming performance, or any collaborations with artist friends, keeping Your audience on their toes is essential.
Interact with user comments by responding to them, and host Q&A sessions on social media, replying with short and genuine answers. Constant, quality engagement means earning loyal followers. Authenticity is key for building Your online presence.
Every social media platform has a golden number of hashtags to take full advantage of connecting You with the audiences who are looking for You. For example, the best number of hashtags to use on TikTok is between three to five. Overusing hashtags can make Your posts look cluttered, so take a few minutes to research how many hashtags are best for Your social media platform of choice (as it does change from time to time). Also take Your time to think about which hashtags make the most sense, and what kinds of hashtags Your audience would use to find You.
Creating a personal website where You can host Your portfolio, blog about Your journey, and list upcoming performances is especially useful if You want to be discovered for new opportunities. Websites like Wix or Squarespace, or creating a Linktree, make it easy to look professional while being reachable.
Berlin is famous for being welcoming and celebrating diversity. Here are some sure-fire ways to connect with communities who are on the lookout for artists like You.
Find invitations on Your socials and join in on the fun at local events, exhibits, gallery openings, and workshops; these are perfect opportunities to connect with other artists, industry professionals, potential collaborators, and people who share similar interests.
Berlin is home to many art collectives and co-working spaces dedicated to discussing and enjoying the arts. Joining a collective provides a sense of community and opportunities to join in on collaborative projects.
If You’re looking for Your next project, there are artistic spots like independent theatres, venues, and organisations that are all in need of Your unique flavour. This is an excellent way of getting Your foot in the door.
Leap into the performance arts scene by performing at local venues and festivals. There are various venues in Berlin where You can showcase Your talents.
Local venues such as bars, cafes, and independent theatres often have open calls searching for emerging artists. They may not pay much, but these opportunities offer invaluable experience, and You can start to figure out what works in live settings.
There are numerous festivals throughout the year. With some luck and exposure (required reading: the social media section again), organisers might invite You to play some of the earlier spots. Be open to new opportunities, whatever they may look like. Being reliable, professional, and consistent will make it far easier for You to book better slots.
Collaborating with other artists for joint performances and projects can introduce You to their fan base and help You reach wider audiences.
Establishing Yourself as a performance artist and getting Your name out there is much easier when You are part of a collective that celebrates You when You win, and supports You in overcoming hurdles.
Join us at DNA. Art Club if You are interested in connecting with talented artists and art-lovers from all walks of life who will support You on Your unique journey.
Whether it’s personal or professional, we want to help You grow alongside us.
Words by Julia Gessner