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."

 

More Than a Drummer: Joshua Manus on Music, Community, and Purpose

In this inspiring conversation, drummer and composer Joshua Manus shares his musical journey from his early beginnings in Nigeria to building a professional career in Dubai. Joshua reflects on growing up in a deeply musical environment, where the church played a crucial role in shaping his path. Like many Nigerian musicians, his first real opportunity to play music came through church, a space that not only nurtured his talent but also instilled discipline, community, and a strong musical foundation from a young age.

He speaks warmly about the influence of his brother, also a musician, who became his earliest inspiration and motivator. Those formative experiences left a lasting imprint on Joshua, and even after relocating to Dubai, he has never lost touch with his musical roots. Instead, he carries them with him, allowing his background to inform both his playing and his approach to music-making.

Joshua opens up about entering the music scene in Dubai, describing it as a place full of possibilities for freelance musicians who are versatile, open-minded, and willing to put in the work. He talks honestly about the opportunities available, as well as the importance of adaptability, professionalism, and networking in a fast-paced and diverse music environment.


Since moving to Dubai, Joshua has also begun to take his work as a composer more seriously. He shares the story behind his composition “God’s Creation”, explaining how the piece developed organically and how collaboration with other musicians helped bring the music to life. The process reflects his belief in collective creativity and the power of collaboration to elevate a musical idea into something truly special.

Beyond performing and composing, Joshua speaks passionately about teaching. He explains how much he values passing on knowledge and how, even in a student’s early lessons, he can often sense their potential. Teaching, for him, is not just about technique but about nurturing confidence, discipline, and a love for music.

Joshua also reflects on the obstacles he faced on his path to formally studying music. Rather than discouraging him, these challenges helped shape his resilience and ultimately made him the musician he is today. He emphasizes the importance of versatility, playing across many genres, and staying open to different musical styles — a mindset that has created more opportunities and longevity in his career.

More than anything, this interview reveals Joshua Manus as not only a highly skilled drummer and composer, but also a grounded and generous human being. He deeply understands that music transcends borders, cultures, and languages — and that at its core, music brings people together. His story is one of perseverance, faith, collaboration, and a lifelong commitment to the universal language of music.


The artist's voicePetra SittigDrummer, Community, Joshua Manus