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."

 

Francis Jay: Why Art Is About the Process, Not the Result

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.


Francis shares how his sister, opera singer Monica Mhangwana, encouraged him and inspired him to start writing songs. She also passed on some of the knowledge and lessons she had gathered along her own musical journey. Music was part of his family life, with his father playing guitar and his mother singing in a choir.


One of the things I found particularly interesting about our conversation was Francis's understanding of creativity and the artistic process. He speaks honestly about the challenges of making art, especially when you care deeply about what you are creating. He believes that everyone has the ability to create something they feel passionate about, and that we should explore art not simply for the end result, but for the experience and process itself.


I really enjoyed this conversation with Francis and the depth of thought he brings to the subject of creativity. It was also lovely to have had the opportunity to speak with both Francis and his sister Monica, each of whom has their own creative path. There is something special about seeing how two people from the same family have developed their own artistic voices, while sharing such a humble and caring approach to what they do.


Every artist has a story worth hearing, and I am happy to share Francis's story with you.


https://www.songfinch.com/artists/francis-jay?srsltid=AU7gw4Wq8xFQWWG1BOlTkA-VkhTtDahwpEK7GwaKrBaFYY-ZksF1xidm



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/

Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ 


Francis Jay: Why Art Is About the Process, Not the Result
Petra Sittig/Francis Jay