• At Bohema, we’re exploring a new journalistic style—a blend of academic rigor, creative flair, and journalistic inquiry. Take the depth and expertise of academic writing, combine it with the boldness and originality of creative expression, and infuse it with the curiosity and sharpness of journalism. Our mission is to embrace all these elements while exploring the diverse Viennese art scene. Show us your unique voice, experiment, push boundaries—but stay focused. After all, we’re still a magazine, and clarity is key.

    No gatekeeping here. Our audience is broad—ranging from die-hard art nerds and culture aficionados to those curious about art but unsure how to dive deeper. Your task is twofold: stay relevant and challenging for the experts, while making culture accessible for newcomers. This means writing with precision, professionalism, and solid research, while keeping it clear and approachable. If you use niche terminology, explain it briefly. If you reference a lesser-known but crucial artist, tell us why they matter.

    Stay in sync with the world. When choosing a topic, think about what’s relevant now. When writing a review, always set it in a broader context. Sure, some readers may want pure critique—but that’s what Letterboxd and similar platforms are for. Our readers come to us to understand why a theater piece matters, why a film resonates, or what an artist stands for. We aim to place everything within its socio-political context.

  • Generally speaking, there are 5 departments in Bohema: music, film, art, literature and theatre. Yet, we also encourage you to write about trans-disciplinary art or anything culture-related: urban design, architecture, graffiti, protest (in art sphere, e.g. Letzte Generation protests) - you name it!

    • We focus on Vienna’s cultural scene—exceptions for noteworthy events outside the city are possible.

    • Essays: Write about what disturbs or intrigues you. Look at global issues through a personal lens. Culture is full of curious systems and patterns—everything becomes a great topic if you ask the right questions. Does your neighbor seem oddly performative when watering their plants? What does this say about them—and others like them? Noticed graffiti disappearing from your neighborhood? Why? What’s the impact? Tie your observations to the cultural pulse and support your theories with solid examples. Let’s unpack what’s really going on.

    • Reviews: Whether it’s something you love or something you expect to dislike—dive into the experience and capture it. Indie events or high-profile premieres, it’s all game. The point is to write with passion and insight.

    • Interviews: Don’t be afraid to reach out to the “big names,” but also seek out lesser-known talent that deserves recognition. Almost everyone—famous or not—wants to talk, it’s just about timing.

    • Pitch your idea: Always pitch your essay, review, or interview idea to your Ressortleiter*in to secure press tickets and avoid overlapping. Keep in mind that our editors volunteer their time—sometimes they’ll have to say no or tweak your idea to preserve quality.

  • Reviews: 2,500 - 4,000 characters

    Essays: Up to 8,000 characters

    Interviews: Use creative formats (in-person, Zoom, or chat-style)

    • Every piece must include a title (max. 60 characters) and a subtitle (100-150 characters). Both should grab attention and clearly reflect the article’s subject.

    • Add a percentage summary—three words with percentages that sum up the core of your article or its subject (examples available).

    • Use inclusive language with an asterisk (e.g., Künstler*in) but feel free to adapt where it makes sense.

    • For Reviews: Go beyond just summarizing names and content. Why should someone care about this event? What bigger political, social, or cultural issues does it touch on? Who stands to benefit from it? What are the underlying motives of those involved? Your job is to dig deeper and uncover the unseen layers. Ask questions, research, and talk to both attendees and organizers.

    • For Interviews: Seek out people who need to be seen in a new light—especially those from underrepresented groups. Choose subjects that mainstream media overlooks. Or, pick someone well-known and ask the questions no one else dares. Prepare meticulously: know your subject’s past work, current projects, and creative journey. Above all, be professional and respectful—you already know that.

    • Write with clarity and purpose. Keep sentences tight and punchy. Avoid unnecessary jargon or complexity.

    • Balance your unique voice with critical thought. Your tone can be bold, provocative, humorous—whatever fits—but always maintain sharp, thoughtful insight.

    • Proofread your work carefully. Check spelling, grammar, and make sure all facts and quotes are correctly cited. Avoid filler and irrelevant tangents.

    • Submit your finished article to bohema.wien@gmail.com, addressed to your Ressortleiter*in.

    • Expect edits and feedback—be ready for revisions.

  • Enjoy the writing process! Bring your personality into your work—don’t be afraid to take risks with tone or format. At Bohema, we want you to be daring, creative, and even a little playful. This is your chance to make a statement, so don’t hold back.

    Writing for Bohema opens doors. You’ll connect with fresh ideas, new people, and exciting projects across Vienna’s cultural scene.

    If you have any special idea or a format in mind - please pitch it to us!