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."

 

Ballet, Big Bands & Film Music – The Many Worlds of Hannah Lena Rebel

In this interview, I speak with Hannah Lena Rebel, a gifted Austrian composer, choreographer, and dancer whose journey through the world of art is as unique as it is profound.

Born in Vienna, Hannah began composing intuitively at the age of three, creating her first piece titled “The Dying Flower.” Her early artistic expression led her into a successful professional ballet career at the Vienna State Opera and studies at MUK University, before returning to her first love: music.

Hannah went on to study composition and conducting at the Prayner Conservatory and later continued her education at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna (MDW), where she received her first diploma in composition in January 2022. She then specialised in Media Composition and Film Scoring, completing her Master of Arts degree (her second diploma) in 2024.

She is now working at the Volksoper Wien in the Department of Sound and Media Technology—a role she is deeply passionate about, which allows her to apply her creative and technical skills in a professional artistic setting.

Her musical style bridges the gap between two seemingly opposing worlds: intellectually grounded and emotionally resonant. Her work is often tonal or free-tonal, reflecting a desire to unite the mental and emotional through sound. Influences include Philip Glass, Erik Satie, Georges I. Gurdjieff, Arvo Pärt, and choral composers like Morten Lauridsen and Eric Whitacre.

Hannah’s compositions often explore analogies, riddles, and the musical setting of ancient texts. She also composes for big band, experimenting with new forms of jazz, and is passionate about film music.

In recognition of her innovative contributions, The RSA (Royal Society of Arts) listed Hannah Lena Rebel among their “50 Famous Fellows” in the March 2024 issue of the RSA Journal—an honor she accepted with immense gratitude.

Tune in to discover the depth, elegance, and originality of Hannah Lena Rebel’s creative world.


The artist's voicePetra SittigHannah Lena Rebel, Composer, Film music composer