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."

 

Opera Dreams and South African Roots: The Story of Sinesipho Mnyango

In this inspiring and heartfelt interview, South African lyrical soprano Sinesipho Mnyango shares her remarkable journey—from her early days singing in a school choir in the Eastern Cape to her passionate pursuit of a professional singing career. She reflects on how those early choral experiences gave her the discipline and confidence to step into the demanding world of classical music.

Sinesipho speaks warmly of the teacher who first believed in her talent, and of the invaluable support from her family—particularly her father, himself an opera singer—who understood the importance of nurturing her dream.

She went on to study voice at the University of Cape Town, where she honed her craft despite the many challenges that came her way. After graduating, she moved to Johannesburg, where she continues to work and grow as an artist. She acknowledges the limited opportunities for opera singers in South Africa due to the scarcity of performance spaces, but her spirit remains unshaken. Passionate and determined, Sinesipho seizes every opportunity to perform, bringing her artistry to life wherever she can.

She expresses deep gratitude to Richard Cock and SITTOpera, who have given her platforms to shine. With dreams of performing on the grand stages of America and Europe, Sinesipho is currently seeking sponsorship to help her audition abroad. Her goal is clear: to bring her voice and presence to some of the world’s most renowned opera houses.

Sinesipho Mnyango is one of many talented South African singers whose brilliance often goes unrecognized due to the lack of infrastructure for opera in the country. Her story is a moving reminder of the talent, determination, and quiet magic that exists here—waiting to be heard.

I wish her all the best on her journey, and hope that one day soon, her voice will ring out from the stage of a theatre in Vienna and beyond.


The artist's voicePetra SittigSouth African Opera singer, Sinesipho Mnyango, Lyrical Soprano