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 Art of Air Skating | Cirque Performer Stuart Mackenzie on Movement & Mastery

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, we meet Stuart Mackenzie — an extraordinary Cirque performer, teacher, and founder of Aerial Fitness Bodies (AFB). Born in London, Stuart began his athletic journey in gymnastics at the age of 12 and went on to represent Great Britain in Sports Acrobatics for a decade, where his Men’s Four team proudly achieved a World No. 1 ranking.

After retiring from competitive sport, Stuart joined the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil, performing in four iconic productions — Saltimbanco, Kooza, Kurios, and Mystère. His artistry and athleticism now take flight in a new form through Air Skating, a breathtaking duo act he performs with Angela Kim. Air Skating beautifully merges the poetry and flow of figure skating with the raw strength and elegance of aerial straps. The pair glide, spin, and soar through the air, creating a dance that defies gravity — blending movement, music, and emotion into a truly unique aerial narrative.

In our conversation, Stuart opens up about his transition from elite athlete to performing artist, the mindset and discipline required to master his craft, and the creative process behind developing Air Skating. He also discusses his innovative Aerial Fitness Bodies (AFB) program — a training platform designed to make the strength and artistry of cirque performance accessible to everyone through creative bodyweight movement and the use of his custom-designed AFB straps.

This inspiring interview captures Stuart’s passion for movement, performance, and the limitless potential of the human body and spirit.

✨ Watch now and be inspired by Stuart Mackenzie’s incredible journey from world champion acrobat to Cirque du Soleil performer, aerial innovator, and creative visionary.


The artist's voicePetra SittigAir Skating, Aerial Fitness, cirque du Solei