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."

 

Architecture as Art: Exploring Design with Ruan Erasmus

In this inspiring conversation, architect Ruan Erasmus from Pretoria, South Africa, shares his journey into the world of architecture and design. Ruan began his career while still studying, gaining invaluable hands-on experience at an architectural firm where he was surrounded by seasoned professionals whose groundbreaking work deeply influenced him. He speaks with great admiration of his mentor, Paul Boshoff, whose guidance and wisdom shaped much of his design philosophy and approach to architectural thinking.

Ruan reflects on the meaning of freedom in design, exploring how creativity and practicality meet within architecture. He emphasizes that true architectural freedom is not just about personal expression, but also about deeply understanding and interpreting a client’s vision. For Ruan, successful design begins with listening — seeing the project through the client’s eyes and finding harmony between imagination, functionality, and context.

We also discuss what it means to start your own firm — the challenges of proving oneself through projects, earning the trust of developers, and building a reputation for integrity and innovation. Ruan’s perspective reveals how consistency, quality, and vision can open doors for lasting professional relationships.

A key theme in our conversation is Ruan’s belief that architecture begins from the inside out. He considers the interior space as the true heart of a building — the place where people live, work, and experience life. For him, designing a meaningful structure starts with how people will interact with the space, and how that environment can uplift and inspire them.Ruan also shares his fascination with buildings that reveal something unexpected — structures that surprise, delight, or tell a hidden story through light, form, and material. This curiosity and appreciation for the subtle moments in design clearly fuel his creative spirit.

Our discussion touches on the transformation of mid-20th-century homes built in South Africa’s industrial towns and cities — many from the 1960s — and how these properties are being redesigned and reimagined for contemporary living. Ruan sees immense potential in these projects: revitalizing neighborhoods, increasing property value, and breathing new life into urban environments.

Throughout our conversation, it becomes clear that Ruan has a genuine love for architecture — not only as a profession but as an art form that shapes human experience. His thoughtful, grounded, and human-centered approach to design reflects both his respect for the craft and his passion for creating spaces that truly matter.

The artist's voicePetra SittigArchitecture, Architectural design, #urbandesign, South African Architect