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."

 

Art, Music & Storytelling: Christine La Monte’s Vision Through Film

Christine La Monte is a producer, director, writer, and former film marketing executive whose remarkable career has spanned some of the most influential studios in Hollywood, including Universal Pictures, The Walt Disney Company and Orion Pictures. In this inspiring conversation, Christine reflects on her childhood growing up in a close-knit Italian family in New York, sharing treasured memories of visiting her grandmother for the traditional Sunday sauce — a ritual that brought generations together around food, storytelling, laughter and love. These early experiences shaped her understanding of family, culture and human connection, themes that continue to influence her work today.

Christine also speaks passionately about her lifelong love of film and storytelling, recalling how she visualised scenes and narratives from an early age before eventually finding her place in the film industry. Her years working within major Hollywood studios gave her a deep understanding of every aspect of filmmaking — from development and marketing to production and audience engagement. With this extensive experience, she went on to found La Monte Productions, creating meaningful films that celebrate humanity, creativity and the transformative power of the arts.

A major focus of our discussion was Christine’s latest documentary, Viva Verdi, which features the Academy Award® nominated song “Sweet Dreams of Joy” by Nicholas Pike. The documentary offers an intimate and deeply moving glimpse into the lives of celebrated opera singers and musicians living at Casa Verdi in Milan — the extraordinary retirement home built by legendary composer Giuseppe Verdi in 1896 for aging musicians. More than simply a residence, Casa Verdi is a living artistic sanctuary where retired performers continue to share their wisdom, talent and passion with young music students who live among them. The film beautifully captures the intergenerational exchange that takes place within its walls, highlighting how art, music and mentorship continue to enrich lives across generations.

This was a truly wonderful and inspiring conversation. Christine’s work reminds us of the profound importance of the arts in society — not only as entertainment, but as a way to preserve history, nurture empathy, foster human connection and create spaces where people feel seen and understood. Through film, music and storytelling, artists have the ability to bridge generations and cultures, offering hope, reflection and meaning in an increasingly disconnected world. Christine’s dedication to creating films with heart and purpose is a powerful testament to the enduring value of the arts and the essential role they play in shaping a more compassionate and connected society.


The artist's voicePetra SittigChristine La Monte, Viva Verdi, Filmmaker