It was lovely catching up with David K. Israel again, and this time our conversation took us away from music and into the world of his latest novel, The Lost Mozart,
Read MoreThe Artist’s voice
Inspired during the initial COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020, my project was sparked by witnessing the struggles of my children, ballet dancers at the Vienna State Opera, unable to practice their craft due to isolation. Initially a small photography endeavor, capturing artists at their windows, it swiftly transformed into a symbol of solidarity for the arts community.
The repercussions of this pandemic will echo throughout the artistic and cultural sectors for years to come. Thus, I felt compelled to shed light on the plight of creative individuals and organizations, advocating for their recognition and support. Through this project, I aimed to amplify artists' voices, offering a platform for their stories and perspectives. If they can't grace the stage, they should still be seen and heard.
Vienna, a bastion of culture, served as a fitting backdrop for my efforts, with its rich artistic heritage and diverse community. I've photographed over 500 artists, including musicians, dancers, and opera stars, alongside ambassadors from various nations, all standing in solidarity with Vienna's artistic community.
The arts, often overlooked, are integral to society's fabric, shaping our collective identity and enriching our lives. They transcend language and borders, offering solace and inspiration in times of turmoil. By spotlighting Vienna's cultural legacy, I hope to instill a greater appreciation for the arts worldwide. Moreover, I've witnessed firsthand the resilience of artists in the face of adversity. Despite canceled performances and financial hardships, their unwavering passion for their craft fuels a newfound creativity. Their optimism is palpable, radiating hope through every photograph.
Through this project, I aim to educate future generations on the importance of the arts, advocating for its integration into education systems worldwide. By nurturing creativity and fostering appreciation for the arts, we can build a more empathetic and harmonious society.Ultimately, my goal is to spark dialogue and action, ensuring that the arts and artists are valued and supported in our modern world. Through interviews with artists globally, I seek to understand their experiences and explore solutions for securing the future of the arts.
In essence, this project is a testament to the resilience and vitality of the human spirit, as embodied by artists around the world. Their stories remind us of the transformative power of art and the boundless possibilities it offers for a brighter future."
Phinda Kabini is a young, self-taught artist from South Africa who is determined to follow his passion for art, despite the challenges he faces.
Read More
What does it mean to be a pianist, and what is the responsibility of a musician towards an audience? These are some of the questions I explored in my conversation with Manuel Ortiz Babiloni, a young Spanish pianist currently studying at the Music and Arts University of the City of Vienna (MUK).
Read More
In this conversation, I speak with South African artist Anina Deetlefs about her latest body of work, The Architecture of Quiet Things, presented at Art@Africa Gallery in Cape Town.
Read More
In this interview, I speak with Di Slaney, a poet, publisher and passionate advocate for animals and the natural world.
Read More
In this conversation with South African SAMA award-winning R&B singer, songwriter and producer Francis Jay, we talk about the role that music and creativity have played in his life from a young age.
Read More
In this conversation, I speak with guitarist Zarek Silberschmidt, a full-time freelance musician based in Basel, Switzerland, whose work spans solo and ensemble performance, studio work, composition and music education.
Read More
In this conversation, I speak with wildlife artist Aurélien VLNA, whose paintings grow from a deep connection with animals and the natural world.
Read More
In this interview, I speak with Andre Visser, Head of Music at Empangeni High School in South Africa, about a school where music has become much more than an extracurricular activity.
Read More
Júlia Aubà is a singer and musical theatre actress from Barcelona whose love for the stage began when she was very young.
Read More
In this conversation, I speak with South African artist Jean Theron Louw, an architect whose true passion found its expression through sculpture.
Read More
In this fascinating conversation, I speak with British conductor David Murphy, a musician whose work reaches far beyond the traditional boundaries of conducting.
Read More
In this interview, I speak with Nigerian artist Paschal Ugwu, whose captivating paintings explore the human form, observation and the many layers of the human experience.
Read More
South African artist Louis Jansen van Vuuren is a painter and poet whose life has been shaped by a deep and enduring love for creative expression.
Read More
In this interview, I speak with contemporary fiber artist Jen Morgan, whose richly textured work celebrates the people, culture, music, and distinctive sense of place that define New Orleans and beyond.
Read More
Finding Strength Through Music: A Conversation with Ashley Nkiwane In this beautiful conversation, I speak with Zimbabwean singer Ashley Nkiwane about music, loss, faith, culture and the healing power of finding your own voice.
Read More
In this interview, I speak with Jaco Verwey, organiser of Rocking the Vaal and spokesperson for the Golden Triangle Chamber of Commerce, about a town on the banks of the Vaal River, its people, its challenges and its remarkable resilience.
Read More
Berlin-based pianist Nikolay Medvedev, originally from Russia, brings together a deep love for the Romantic repertoire with a curiosity for music that crosses boundaries.
Read More
Dario Savino Doronzo, soprano flugelhorn, and Livio Minafra, piano and composition, came together through a shared curiosity for sound, expression and artistic exploration.
Read More
William Bejedi is the charismatic frontman of Willy & The Sheiks, a seven-piece band bringing swing to life with energy, charm and a fresh twist.
Read More