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."

 

A Hurricane in Heals, Queen Sheba on Spoken Word, Voice, and Creation

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with the poet and spoken word artist Queen Sheba, who is currently nominated for a Grammy Award in the spoken word category. We talk about the dedication, discipline, and creative focus it took to bring this work to life, including the two years of consistent effort, refinement, and trust in her voice that led to this moment of recognition.

Queen Sheba shares insights into her powerful recording A Hurricane in Heals, reflecting on the intention behind the work and what she hopes audiences will experience when they listen. She speaks about presence, emotional honesty, and the importance of allowing spoken word to be felt in the body as much as it is understood in the mind.

During our conversation, she offers a clear and thoughtful explanation of the difference between poetry and spoken word, helping to demystify an art form that is often misunderstood. She encourages people to attend spoken word performances in person, inviting audiences to experience the immediacy, vulnerability, and connection that live performance offers. We also talk about common misconceptions surrounding spoken word, and how it is often boxed into expectations that do not reflect its true range or depth.

We explore the idea that poetry is frequently seen as serious or melancholic, and Queen Sheba beautifully challenges this notion by speaking about humor, playfulness, and comedy within poetry. She reminds us that poetry can be joyful, funny, and light, while still being meaningful and impactful.

Queen Sheba also speaks candidly about her love for writing, sharing that it has always been a form of therapy for her. From childhood onward, writing has been a place of expression, healing, and self discovery, a space where she could process emotions and connect more deeply with herself and the world around her.

In addition, she offers insight into the collaborative nature of her work, highlighting the team involved in bringing a spoken word performance and a recording like A Hurricane in Heals to life. From creative collaboration to technical support, she emphasizes that such projects are the result of shared vision, trust, and collective effort.

This conversation is filled with warmth, enthusiasm, and deep respect for the art form. Speaking with Queen Sheba was a true joy, her passion for spoken word, her generosity in sharing her process, and her vibrant energy make this interview an inspiring celebration of voice, creativity, and the living power of poetry.

www.thequeensheba.live

Spotify|Instagram|Twitter|LinkedIn|TikTok: @thequeensheba

The artist's voicePetra SittigQueen Sheba, A Hurricane in Heels, Spoken word, Poetry