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."

 

Healing Through Music: The Transformation of Miyabi Matsuoka

In this inspiring interview, I speak with Miyabi Matsuoka, a Japanese harpist based in Vienna whose powerful personal journey is transforming the way musicians relate to their art.

Miyabi began playing the harp at 12, guided by her mother, also a harpist who encouraged her to strive for excellence. She went on to win numerous competitions and build an impressive musical career. But the intense pressure to be perfect, combined with years of demanding practice, took a serious toll on her health. Eventually, Miyabi became ill and realised her symptoms were rooted in mental and emotional stress rather than physical causes.

In a courageous step, she stopped playing completely and spent the next 20 years studying psychology to understand what had happened to her. During this time, she developed the Miyabi Method, a holistic approach that blends psychology, body-mind awareness, and a healthier philosophy of music-making. Her book about this journey was warmly received and opened new conversations about mental well-being in the classical music world.

Today, Miyabi plays with renewed joy and authenticity, teaches her method to others, and is writing a new book commissioned by Yamaha exploring cultural influences on how musicians approach their art.

Miyabi’s story is touching, honest, and full of resilience. Her positive energy and beautiful personality shine through, making this conversation a truly uplifting experience.


The artist's voicePetra SittigMiyabi Matsuoka, Harpist, Courageous step, Miyabi Method