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."

 

South Africa’s Most Performed Composer: Hendrik Hofmeyr in Conversation

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Hendrik Hofmeyr, often described as South Africa’s most performed classical composer. His works span opera, orchestral, chamber, choral, vocal, and piano music, and have been performed across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.

We discuss his opera Sara Baartman, which tells the true story of Saartjie Baartman, a woman of the Khoi community whose life and legacy remain an important part of South African history. Hendrik shares why he felt compelled to give voice to her story through music and the deeper cultural significance behind the work.

Our conversation also explores how African musical traditions have influenced his compositions, including his album Partita Africana (Disques Triton, 2021), performed by Marika Hofmeyr (piano), Philippe Bernold (flute), and Berthilde Dufour (violin). This collection, whose title translates to “African Partita,” incorporates indigenous song and thematic transformation, reflecting Hendrik’s deep engagement with the sound world of the African continent. His music has also been featured and recognized in leading French publications.

We also speak about the challenges and opportunities for classical musicians in South Africa today, and the significance of Hofmeyr’s works being included in the syllabus of classical music education.

In recognition of his extraordinary contribution to South African music, Hofmeyr was awarded the prestigious triennial Hubert Rupert Prize for Classical Music by the South African Academy of Science and Art in 2025.

Beyond his life as a composer, we look at his distinguished academic career: from lecturing at Stellenbosch University to serving as Professor and Head of Composition and Theory at the University of Cape Town until 2022, where he inspired generations of musicians and composers.

https://hendrikhofmeyr.wixsite.com/mysite

The artist's voicePetra SittigHendrik Hofmeyr, Composer, South African Composer, Hubert Rupert Prize for Classical music, Saartjie Baartman, Sara Baartman