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."

 

Creating by Heart: Precious Akindele on Music, Courage and Creativity

In this inspiring conversation, I speak with Precious Akindele, a rising pianist, organist and contemporary classical composer from London. Precious first discovered music at school and, because she is visually impaired, learned many of her piano pieces by ear. She went on to study music at the BRIT School and is now preparing to continue her studies at Trinity Laban.

Precious speaks with such enthusiasm about her love of composing and the joy she finds in creating her own music. She also shares how discovering the church organ presented a completely new challenge, but one that she embraced and grew to love.

We talk about her passion for communicating about music through her Instagram page, where she creates engaging and interesting videos, as well as her experiences as a young artist finding her own way.

What struck me most about Precious was her determination, confidence and openness to new possibilities. Her visual impairment has not stopped her from pursuing music or from doing things in her own way. Instead, she approaches every opportunity with curiosity, energy and an obvious love for what she does.

I came away from this conversation feeling genuinely inspired by Precious and her enthusiasm for music, creativity and life.

Every artist has a story worth hearing.

Creating by Heart: Precious Akindele on Music, Courage and Creativity
Petra Sittig/Precious Akindele