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."

 

Telling Our Stories in Colour: Lelo Mncwango on Street Art with Meaning

In this captivating online interview, I speak with Lelo Mncwango, a talented and passionate street artist based in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Renowned for her vibrant, colourful murals that fuse fine art with storytelling, Lelo’s work brings walls to life with cultural richness and social relevance. Her murals often explore themes of identity, heritage, and community — told through a deeply personal and artistic lens. Lelo talks about her journey into the art world, tracing it back to her childhood in the rural parts of South Africa. She reflects on the challenges of growing up under difficult living conditions, where access to resources, exposure to the arts, and everyday comforts were limited. These early experiences, she explains, built her resilience and determination — qualities that continue to drive her creative work today. Her story is one of grit, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of her artistic voice. Throughout the conversation, Lelo offers insight into her creative process — from how she conceptualises a mural to the technical aspects of using spray paint as a primary medium. Her fine arts background shines through in her compositions, and she shares the practical realities of working on large walls, often high off the ground. Whether using scaffolding or balancing carefully on a ladder, Lelo speaks confidently about her lack of fear when it comes to heights, and how she maintains control and precision even while working at scale. She is also a key contributor to the Love Howick project, a community-based initiative dedicated to beautifying and revitalising the town of Howick through public art. In this role, Lelo collaborates with local artists and residents to create murals that reflect shared values and aspirations — turning public spaces into vibrant canvases that uplift and inspire. This interview offers a powerful glimpse into the life and mind of a muralist who is using her art not just to decorate, but to celebrate, educate, and transform.

https://lelotheart.com