Contact local art galleries to find out about the application procedures for getting your work into shows. Bring your portfolio and artist's statement to any meetings that you are able to set up.
Get to know local art gallery owners and curators by attending art openings and festivals in your city. Don't be afraid to talk to people and network at these events.
Create a website with images of your work and information about yourself. Place your name and website on artist registries so that your website is linked to your name.
Set up shows for yourself and other artists you know at places where it is not too difficult to get shows. Such places include local libraries and restaurants, for example. Contact the owners or managers and ask them if they would like an art show at their establishment. Make sure to tell them that you will take care of all the details, including installation and removal of the works.
Write a blog about your work and link it to your website. Include information on your newest work, your thought process and images of your work. Be active in the blog community and include links to other bloggers on your page so that hopefully they will reciprocate and link to your blog.
Work in an art gallery or museum so that you have access to new ideas and people associated with art. Be responsible, friendly and outgoing at your job so that the people you work with like and respect you. This can help with future opportunities as you work towards being discovered.