Petra Sittig Photography - Vienna, Austria
Petra Sittig Photography - Photoshoots for Artists and Professionals
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The artist's voice -Podcast

The Artist's voice is a platform for artists to talk about and showcase their form of art. Inviting all artists to express their love for what they do and use this platform to give an insight into their world. All dancers, choreographers, teachers, musicians, singers, composers, creators of art; this is the place to show and tell.

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."

 

Finding Hope in Unexpected Places: Cas Wepener on Rituals, the Advent Calendar, and Storytelling

In this interview, Cas Wepener, Professor of Practical Theology at Stellenbosch University, shares his diverse work and creative passions.

Cas provides a heartfelt exploration of a thought-provoking Advent calendar project he collaborated on, which features artwork by Wessel van Dyk and his own written reflections. This unique calendar takes a fresh approach to the Advent tradition by highlighting locations across Cape Town that can be seen as modern-day “stables,” echoing the humble birthplace of Jesus. These places—symbolic of shelter and hope—represent the struggles and resilience of those facing hardships during the festive season. Unlike traditional Advent calendars filled with chocolates, this one invites participants to look outward and reflect on the lives of others. It’s a call to compassion and mindfulness, encouraging a deeper connection to the true spirit of Christmas by considering the marginalized and vulnerable in our communities.

The conversation also delves into Cas’s work as a novelist. His stories are deeply rooted in historical events, offering readers a vivid journey through time. His latest novel, Roman, is a compelling narrative based on true events, and Cas shares how his research in Cape Town's archives helped shape the story. He reflects on the process of bringing historical moments to life through fiction, capturing both the factual details and the human emotions that connect the past to the present.

Specializing in ritual, liturgy, and homiletics, Cas focuses on religious rituals within specific cultural and social contexts. His recent research projects have included studies on rituals and social capital formation, rituals in fictive texts, and liturgies of anger. As the first editor of Bonding in Worship: A Ritual Lens on Social Capital Formation in African Independent Churches in South Africa (Peeters Press, 2019), Cas brings a deep understanding of how rituals shape communities.

Whether discussing theology, community-focused projects, or his storytelling craft, Cas brings rich insights and inspiration to this fascinating conversation.




The artist's voicePetra Sittigwriter, adventcalender, theologist, practicaltheology, stellenboschuniversity