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."

 

When Talent Meets Belief: Nathalie Peña Comas in Her Own Words

In this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, I speak with the remarkable Nathalie Peña Comas, a celebrated soprano from the Dominican Republic whose musical journey is as moving as her voice. Nathalie shares how her path into music began at a local music school, where she learned to play the recorder and sang in the choir. Encouraged by her mother, who believed strongly in the value of music, she and her two sisters all went on to build careers in music, each following her own path with dedication and heart.


What makes Nathalie’s story especially touching is the unexpected way her singing career began. Early on, she was told that she didn’t have a good singing voice, so she focused her studies on piano. It wasn’t until she came to Vienna to study at the University of Music and Performing Arts (MDW) that things changed. A professor there saw her potential and offered her the chance to study voice, opening the door to a future she had not imagined for herself.

Throughout the interview, Nathalie offers thoughtful insight into how her career developed and why she finds such joy in performing. She speaks openly about the freedom she feels as a freelance artist, and how much more fulfilling it is to have the space to choose what she sings, when she feels ready, and when her voice is at its best. As she explains, singers must treat their voices with great care, since the voice is part of the body and changes with time, health, and emotion. This means being constantly attuned to what feels right, and having the patience to honour that.

Nathalie also shares her hopes for the future with warmth and sincerity. Her reflections on the artistic journey, on staying true to oneself, and on finding joy in the process rather than just the outcome, are truly inspiring. I was deeply touched by this conversation and walked away with a renewed appreciation for the depth and discipline behind a life in music.

This interview is a celebration of resilience, artistic integrity, and the quiet strength it takes to pursue your calling in a world full of noise. It was a privilege to speak with Nathalie Peña Comas, and I hope her story touches you as much as it touched me.

https://www.nathaliepenacomas.net/bio

The artist's voicePetra SittigNathalie Pena Comas, Opera singer, artistic journey