Petra Sittig Photography - Vienna, Austria
Petra Sittig Photography - Photoshoots for Artists and Professionals
Podcast Thumbnail-2.jpg

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."

 

The Period of Light: Levon Avagyan on Transformation, Tradition, and Meaning

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Armenian artist Levon Avagyan, whose artistic journey moves from dark, futuristic philosophical visions to luminous, Renaissance-inspired works rooted in classical technique. Born in Yerevan in 1990, Levon was deeply influenced by his grandfather, Gevorg Avagyan, an Armenian impressionist realist painter. In our conversation, Levon shares vivid memories of his grandfather’s studio, especially the lingering smell of paint, and reflects on the guidance and values that continue to shape his artistic path today.

Levon studied at the Yerevan Academy of Fine Arts from 2007 to 2011 under the guidance of Saro Galents, and his early work, including the series Bad Dreams About The Future, explored the human condition through dark, surreal, and futuristic imagery. He speaks openly about this “darker period,” explaining how the rock music he listened to at the time strongly influenced the emotional intensity and atmosphere of his paintings. Between 2014 and 2016, his Non Surprising World series further deepened this exploration, marked by restrained colour palettes and a sense of alienation and detachment from reality.



A profound shift occurred after 2016, which Levon calls his “Period of Light.” Influenced by Baroque music, especially Bach, and the techniques of 15th-century Flemish and Italian Renaissance masters, his work moved toward a classical approach using tempera and oil on panel with true gesso. Levon reflects on how music continues to shape his compositions and inner rhythm, and how each brushstroke carries intention and meaning.

We also speak about the responsibility of the artist, how a painting has the power to touch the viewer on a soul level. Levon shares how this awareness, rooted in the lessons of his grandfather, guides his work today and why he approaches painting with deep care, respect, and presence. This was a truly inspiring conversation about legacy, music, transformation, and the profound responsibility of making art that speaks beyond words.


https://www.levonavagyan.com/bio



The artist's voicePetra SittigLevon Avagyan, artist