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."

 

Mbasa Tsetsana: Shaping Stories Across Stage and Screen

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I did an interview with Mbasa Tsetsana – a theatre actor, writer, and director whose journey through the arts has been nothing short of inspiring.

Mbasa’s story begins in East London, South Africa, but his craft has taken him to some of the country’s most renowned stages and screens. From interning and writing for the beloved South African soapie Muvhango, to having his script Fallen Angel selected for ETV’s EKASI: Our Stories in 2013, Mbasa has carved a place for himself in both theatre and film.

On stage, he has brought characters to life in powerful productions such as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Athol Fugard’s Master Harold and the Boys, Femi Osofisan’s Morountodun (directed by Andrew Buckland), and Red Shoes (by Leila Henriques). As an award-winning playwright and director, Mbasa’s works have graced stages at the Nelson Mandela Bay Theatre Complex, the East London Guild Theatre, the Joburg Theatre, the South African State Theatre, Artscape, and WITS Theatre.

But beyond his achievements, Mbasa speaks passionately about the spirit of creation – about making art not for money first, but for the process, the story, and the soul. In this conversation, he reflects on the challenges of the South African film and theatre industry, the importance of supporting local artists, and his vision of a world where creativity thrives before commerce.Join me for a conversation that celebrates artistry, resilience, and the power of storytelling.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Artist’s Voice for more inspiring interviews with artists from around the world.

The artist's voicePetra SittigMbasa Tsetsana, South African artist, Theatre and Film