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."

 

Lilit Margaryan: Patience, Passion and the Oboe

Lilit Margaryan, a recent graduate of the Anton Bruckner Private University in Linz, Austria, where she studied under Peter Tavernaro. In this inspiring interview, Lilit reflects on her journey from growing up in Armenia to pursuing her musical studies abroad, sharing the personal and artistic challenges that shaped her path.

Interestingly, Lilit’s introduction to the oboe happened almost by accident. Drawn to the instrument because it was something unusual and rarely played, she was fascinated by its unique character and expressive sound. What began as curiosity soon became a passion that would lead her far from home in search of the musical education she dreamed of.

Lilit speaks openly about the difficult decision many young musicians face when leaving their home countries to study abroad. Moving to Austria meant adapting not only to a new educational system, but also to a different language, culture, and way of life. She explains how these shared experiences create strong bonds between international music students, who understand the emotional and practical obstacles each other faces while building a life far from home.

The conversation also explores the intricate and demanding nature of the oboe itself — an instrument often considered one of the most challenging to master. Lilit discusses the patience, discipline, and dedication required to pursue a career as a musician, especially on such a technically sensitive instrument. She gives fascinating insight into the art of reed making, explaining how oboists carefully craft and adjust their own reeds over time. Even the smallest variation in the reed can dramatically influence the tone, intonation, response, and emotional colour of the instrument. Through years of practice, she has learned how essential reed making is to developing a personal sound and artistic identity as an oboist.

Always drawn to the road less travelled, Lilit is also deeply interested in exploring jazz on the oboe — a rare and exciting direction for the instrument. Her curiosity and willingness to push beyond traditional boundaries reflect both her adventurous musical spirit and her determination to keep discovering new possibilities.

This was a wonderful and thoughtful conversation with a young musician whose journey has taught her not only about music, but also about resilience, independence, adaptability, and personal growth. Lilit’s story is a reminder that the path of an artist is as much about life experience as it is about technical mastery, and that the courage to follow an uncommon path can lead to something truly meaningful.


The artist's voicePetra SittigOboist, musician, Lilit Margaryan