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."

 

From Numbers to Notes: Richard Case's Journey to the Pedal Steel Guitar

Richard Case's path into music is anything but conventional. Growing up in South Africa, he pursued a degree in Mathematics at the University of Cape Town rather than formal musical training. It wasn't until he moved to Hamburg that he encountered an instrument that would change the course of his life: the pedal steel guitar.

Entirely self-taught, Richard shares the remarkable story of how curiosity, persistence, and countless hours of practice led him to master one of the world's most expressive—and technically demanding—instruments. During our conversation, he not only explains his learning process but also offers fascinating insight into the mechanics and unique character of the pedal steel guitar. One of the highlights of the interview is hearing Richard demonstrate its rich, singing tones as he explains how the pedals and levers create the instrument's unmistakable sound.


Richard's journey beautifully illustrates that creativity and analytical thinking are not opposites but powerful partners. Mathematics develops logic, pattern recognition, problem-solving, and disciplined thinking, while music nurtures creativity, emotional expression, listening, adaptability, and imagination. Learning an instrument also strengthens concentration, memory, coordination, perseverance, and the ability to think both critically and creatively.

His story is a reminder that the arts are not separate from subjects such as mathematics and science—they complement and enrich them. When schools value music alongside STEM subjects, students develop a broader range of cognitive, emotional, and social skills that prepare them not only for careers but for life. Innovation often happens where analytical thinking meets creativity, and Richard's journey is a wonderful example of how these worlds can come together.

I hope you enjoy this inspiring conversation with Richard Case, whose passion for learning proves that it's never too late to discover a new instrument, embrace a new challenge, and find your own musical voice.


From Numbers to Notes: Richard Case's Journey to the Pedal Steel Guitar
Petra Sittig/Richard Case
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The artist's voicePetra SittigPedal Steel guitar, Musicians