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."

 

One Man, One Bag, One Mission: How Makhubalo Uses Art to Uplift the Youth of South Africa

I recently had the privilege of conducting an online interview with Makhubalo Ikaneng, also known as Khuba, a passionate film producer, writer, and storyteller from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Khuba’s work is deeply rooted in community upliftment, and he uses his creative gifts to inspire and empower the youth.

Khuba travels to schools across the region, performing one-man shows armed with nothing but a bag full of props and a heart full of purpose. His performances are more than just entertainment, they are powerful messages of hope, resilience, and self-belief. He has a unique understanding of the challenges facing young boys and girls in his community, and he meets them with compassion, wisdom, and encouragement.

Through his storytelling, Khuba helps young people to dream bigger and strive for a better future. He firmly believes that art is a transformative tool, capable of educating, healing, and empowering individuals. For Khuba, South Africa is a land of endless possibilities, waiting to be explored and nurtured.

In our conversation, he also spoke about his involvement in the Love Howick project with Matt Hogarty, a community initiative aimed at uplifting towns in the Midlands. His contribution to this project further highlights his commitment to using creativity and collaboration to bring about positive change.

What struck me most during this interview was Khuba’s unwavering belief in the value of the arts in society. He articulates with great clarity how artistic expression can be a vehicle for transformation, both personal and communal. He is a true artist, not only in his craft but in his purpose.

I came away from the interview deeply moved and inspired. Khuba is a remarkable example of someone using their talent in service of others. His work reminds us that through storytelling and creative engagement, we can build a brighter, more hopeful future for all.

https://midlandsmosaic.wordpress.com/2020/08/29/young-writers/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T63JgUn5e4o
https://www.instagram.com/p/CytKahRq-qr/



The artist's voicePetra SittigSouth African Artists, Storyteller