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."

 

The Production Magician: Sophie Zimmermann and the Secret Life of Sets

In this interview, I speak with Sophie Zimmermann, a talented production designer and set designer who proudly calls herself a "Production Magician"—and rightfully so. Sophie shares her passion for creating immersive, unforgettable experiences for live theatre, concerts, circus, and large-scale events, all while making the impossible possible.

From crafting intricate props and scenography to solving complex logistical puzzles, Sophie thrives on the challenges that come with transforming abstract creative visions into seamless stage realities. For her, the true magic lies in making everything look effortless—so that audiences can simply enjoy the moment, without ever wondering how the illusion came to life.

Currently, Sophie is part of the production team of “Terhal,” a groundbreaking Saudi theatrical show produced by Dragone in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Culture. The production is a spectacular fusion of Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage with cutting-edge stage technology, lighting, and natural elements—an ambitious celebration of the country’s evolving cultural identity.

Sophie also reflects on her recent work on the Helene Fischer's tour through Germany and Austria, where she enjoyed the dynamic nature of being in a different venue every three to four days, adapting designs to new spaces, and maintaining the visual magic across all performances. Another major highlight was her involvement in Eurovision 2026, where she helped orchestrate the monumental task of coordinating precise stage setups for each act—under tight time constraints and with no room for error.

Beyond the lights and spectacle, Sophie opens up about the unsung role of stage and production designers, advocating for greater recognition of the creativity, skill, and problem-solving that goes into every production.

And indeed, after hearing Sophie speak about her work with such clarity, warmth, and humility, one cannot help but agree—she is a true production magician. Her ability to conjure entire worlds, manage chaos behind the curtain, and deliver visual poetry to audiences across the globe is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Tune in to discover how Sophie brings magic to the stage—and why her work, and the work of countless others like her, deserves to be seen, valued, and celebrated.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-zimmermann/?locale=en_US

The artist's voicePetra SittigSophie Zimmermann, Production designer