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."

 

Beyond the Barre: Paul Doyle’s Vision for a Healthier Future in Dance

I recently conducted an online interview with Paul Doyle, a highly respected figure in the dance community. Paul is a multifaceted professional—he is a dance teacher, Dance Examiner, sports and exercise scientist, and currently serves as Head of Studies at the prestigious Central School of Ballet.

During our conversation, Paul spoke with heartfelt passion about his lifelong dedication to dance. His journey began in Ireland, where he was introduced to dance as a child. That early experience laid the foundation for a rich and varied career in the performing arts and education. Over time, his love for ballet evolved into a deep commitment to teaching and mentoring the next generation of dancers.

Paul emphasized how integral teaching has become to his professional identity. He finds immense fulfillment in guiding young dancers and is particularly driven by the opportunity to shape the way they think about movement, technique, and health. His dual background in dance and sports science gives him a unique perspective on dancer development. He is a strong advocate for blending artistic training with scientific principles to improve performance and reduce injury.

One of the key themes in our discussion was the importance of introducing scientific knowledge—such as biomechanics, anatomy, and conditioning—into dance training from an early age. Paul believes that by equipping young dancers with an understanding of how their bodies function, educators can foster a more sustainable approach to training. His goal is not only to help dancers achieve peak performance but also to ensure they maintain long, healthy careers.

Looking ahead, Paul is excited about the future of dance education. He envisions a training culture where tradition and innovation work hand in hand—where artistic excellence is supported by evidence-based methods, and where the wellbeing of dancers is always a priority. His passion for dance, teaching, and science underscores his commitment to positive change in the industry.

https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/people/paul-doyle/