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."

Gerrit Jordaan - South African Organist

Organist Gerrit Jordaan is talking about his role as organist in the town of George in the Western Cape. From a young age Gerrit already had a great love for the organ as instrument and he tells the story of how he, at the age of 3, built an organ with Lego blocks. Gerrit organises Lunch hour concerts where the local musicians can have the opportunity to play or sing and with the help Dalene Steenkamp-Brits, composer and Pianist they achieve a lot. He feels optimistic about young people being interested in playing the organ and he feels that the organ is still a fascinating instrument. Gerrit expresses his wish to come and do organ concerts in Europe where he can play South African repertoire with works of Stefans Grove, Afrika Hymnus, where he imitates the sounds of Africa. For Gerrit it was always a privilege to bring this beautiful music of South Africa to Europe and to tell the folklore of Africa through the sound of the organ.

Toccata for Madiba - Surendran Reddy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-BLpOHzrtxI&ab_channel=GerritJordaan

Stefans Grové (1922-2014) - Afrika Hymnus 1.2

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvs9mxJ3JAw&t=12s&ab_channel=GerritJordaan

Stefans Grové (1922-2014) - Afrika Hymnus 1.1 - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGiXG2hePpA&t=11s&ab_channel=GerritJordaan

Lift up Your Heads Gerrit Olivier - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXIw9QWNr9g&ab_channel=GerritJordaan

Buxtehude Ciacona in E min - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGXhuex8Z_s&ab_channel=GerritJordaan

Schumann Studien für den Pedalflügel Op 56 Nr 1. Gerrit Jordaan (organ)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-s2XyzG3Vs4&ab_channel=GerritJordaan