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."

 

The Quiet Power of Graphite: South African Artist Lizl Bode on Her Creative Process

In this conversation, I speak with South African artist Lizl Bode, a self-taught creator from Cape Town known for her photorealistic monochrome works in graphite and technical ink. Lizl’s art is celebrated for its precision, emotional depth, and the way she elevates ordinary objects and portraits through careful observation.

We talk about her studio, the place where she feels most at home and where her creative process unfolds with patience and intention. A true perfectionist, Lizl shares how she wants viewers to sense the care that goes into every line and layer of her work.

She reflects on drawing inspiration from her own experiences, believing that authenticity can only come from what she personally knows and feels. Lizl also speaks about her deep connection to graphite as a medium, explaining how its slowness and therapeutic quality support the meditative nature of her process.

Beyond her artistic practice, Lizl discusses her role as Regional Chair for the G100 Arts Leadership & Films Wing in Cape Town, and she expresses her hopes for the future—especially her wish for her studio to become a welcoming space where people can explore, create, and find inspiration.

This interview offers a thoughtful and intimate glimpse into the world of an artist devoted to her craft, her community, and the quiet power of monochrome art.