How to Actually Support Emerging Artists in India
- Vaibhav Modi
- Apr 3
- 3 min read
In India’s buzzing arts and nightlife scene, we often celebrate artists once they’ve “made it.” But what about those still carving their path?
Supporting emerging artists isn’t just about applause at the end of a show—it’s about consistent, tangible actions that help them sustain their craft. Whether you’re an audience member, venue, brand, or policymaker, here’s how you can be part of a thriving, equitable creative culture.
---
🎭 Show Up & Engage—More Than Just a Selfie Moment
Great performances aren’t just about the artist—they thrive on the energy of an engaged audience. But engagement isn’t just about attendance.
Buy the ticket. you can afford to pay for the art you enjoy.
Hype the event. A simple share or post goes a long way.
Ditch the guest list mentality. Are you there for the vibe or just to be seen?
Real support means investing, not just showing up for the ‘gram.
---
💰 Venues & Promoters—Pay Your Artists on Time
The industry is no stranger to delayed payments. We’ve all seen posts calling out venues and promoters for unpaid dues.
Exposure doesn’t pay rent. Stop expecting artists to work for “the opportunity.”
Stick to payment timelines. Delayed payments hurt the industry, but quicker payments build trust.
Artists, document your deals. A written agreement can save months of follow-ups.
If you can’t afford to pay, don’t book the gig.
---
🎤 Artists Bring Art—Not Your Entire Audience
An artist’s job is to create and perform, not to sell tickets, host the event, and do your marketing too.
A DJ isn’t an emcee. A performer isn’t your full-time promoter.
Promotion is a team effort. Stop shifting the responsibility onto artists alone.
Book artists for their craft, not their follower count. Talent should be the priority.
---
📢 Give Credit Where It’s Due
Social media is a powerful tool in an artist’s career—but only when they get proper visibility.
Tag the artists. Their work deserves recognition.
Name every performer, designer, and collaborator. Their efforts matter.
Venues & promoters, put every name on the flyer. Small acts of visibility lead to bigger opportunities.
---
🎨 Brands—You Love Indie Aesthetics, Now Pay for It
Indian brands love tapping into underground culture. But are they giving back?
Hire local artists for campaigns. Stop expecting free work for “collabs.”
Feature their work & tag them. Visibility matters.
Fair pay isn’t a luxury. If you can afford a campaign, you can afford to pay creatives.
---
🏳️🌈 Venues—Inclusivity Isn’t Just a Buzzword
Diverse programming isn’t just ethical—it’s good business. A 2022 study by the UK Music Diversity Report found that inclusive lineups drive higher engagement and industry growth.
Book LGBTQIA+ artists, women-led projects, and grassroots talent.
Don’t just talk inclusivity—make it part of your programming.
---
🤝 Mentorship Over Gatekeeping
The industry thrives when knowledge is shared, not hoarded.
Guide emerging artists. Help them navigate bookings and branding.
Make introductions. One recommendation can change a career.
More residencies, grants & mentorships, please!
🎭 Cultural Organizations & Policymakers—Fund the Arts
India has a rich cultural heritage, but funding for emerging artists remains limited.
Push for more grants & financial backing. The arts deserve investment.
Advocate for better policies supporting creative industries.
---
🚀 Final Thought: If You Want Culture, Invest in It
A thriving arts scene isn’t built on clout—it’s built on real support. Whether you’re an audience member, a venue, a promoter, or a brand, you have a role to play in keeping the creative industry alive. Let’s make it happen.
Want to be part of the change? Start by showing up.
Comments