Gaining recognition ?

Hi! Im just starting out photography as a hobby after many years debating to buy a camera or not. I bought the Nikon d3100 with 15-55 mm lens because I heard it was good for beginners.

But I am not looking for making money with my photography but more capturing a view and emotions (I wouldn’t mind to make money after some time too). I want to show people my work and make my mark on the art world or at least on the people interested.

My question is for the people who have a following or they have their work im galleries and museums.

How did you present your work and make yourself known?

It would be better for someone to answer that didnt go to a specific school or academy but still been able to push through.