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."

 

Telling Stories Through Color: Mpilwenhle Gwala on Life, Resilience, and Beauty

In this heartfelt and inspiring online interview, wI speak with Mpilwenhle Gwala, a young artist from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, whose life story is as rich and textured as the artwork he creates. Growing up in a rural village, Mpilwenhle's early days were spent herding cows and watching boys play football, games he was never chosen to join. Instead, he found his own form of expression on the sidelines, drawing in the sand with a stick. What seemed like a quiet pastime would later reveal itself as the foundation of a profound artistic journey.


Without access to formal art lessons in primary school, Mpilwenhle continued to nurture his gift on his own, driven by an inner calling to create. His talent, combined with relentless dedication, eventually led him to the BAT Centre in Durban, a hub for young creatives, where he is now formally studying art.


In the interview, Mpilwenhle shares how his work is inspired by the resilience, struggle, and beauty of his community and family. His paintings are more than just visual expressions, they are stories of survival, hope, and the everyday triumphs of people who are often overlooked. Through his art, Mpilwenhle gives voice to the silent strength of rural South Africa and paints himself into a future he once only dreamed of.


His journey, from drawing in the sand to painting stories on canvas, is a powerful reminder of how creativity can uplift, transform, and inspire. Mpilwenhle Gwala’s story is not only a testament to his courage and passion but also a beacon for other young people in similar circumstances. May many more follow in his footsteps and find their own voices through art.


https://www.batcentre.co.za/visualart.html


The artist's voicePetra SittigSouth African Artist, Telling stories through art