The 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."

First the Soul, Then the Lines | The Art of Aurélien VLNA

In this conversation, I speak with wildlife artist Aurélien VLNA, whose paintings grow from a deep connection with animals and the natural world.

Aurélien travels around the world to experience wildlife in its natural surroundings. For him, being out in the wild is not simply about observing an animal. It is about sensing its presence, its movement and its energy. He brings this experience into his paintings through a fascinating process that begins with movement and colour.

Aurélien sees his paintings in different parts. First comes the soul of the animal. He paints with the same movement he senses in the animal, allowing the energy of the creature to become part of the painting. Only afterwards does he use ink to draw the details and distinctive characteristics that make each animal what it is.

“First the soul, then comes the lines.”

Gold and silver leaf bring light into his work, almost as though he is revealing the value and preciousness of the animal itself.

Some of his paintings take many hours to complete. In a world that is constantly moving faster, Aurélien has chosen another pace. He calls it slow art.

“Nature never rushes. Neither do I.”

What struck me most during our conversation is the genuine connection I sense between Aurélien and the animals he paints. He has found his own voice and his place within the world of wildlife art, and his work has begun to receive recognition from major wildlife art communities. He was selected for the prestigious Natural Eye 2026 exhibition in London.

This is a conversation about wildlife, movement, patience and the search for the soul within a painting.

Every artist has a story worth hearing.

If you've enjoyed The Artist's Voice, you're invited to support the project through https://buymeacoffee.com/petrasittig

Every coffee helps keep meaningful conversations with artists brewing.

Thanks for listening, watching, and cheering on the arts!

The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon

Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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The artist's voicePetra Sittig5 October 2026Wildlife artist, Aurelien VLNA

The artist's voice -Podcast

The Artist’s voice

First the Soul, Then the Lines | The Art of Aurélien VLNA