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."

 

Mental Health Support in the Dance World | Interview with Terry Hyde

In this interview, Terry Hyde, a former professional dancer turned psychotherapist, shares his invaluable perspective on the intersection of dance and mental health. As a counselor for dancers, Terry is leading a movement to bring essential mental health support to the dance community, addressing the unique challenges dancers face in both their training and professional careers.

Having experienced the pressures of the dance world firsthand, Terry is passionate about raising awareness of the psychological strains dancers encounter—often overlooked in such a competitive and demanding field. He discusses how crucial it is for dance teachers to recognize the mental health needs of their students, as the psychological impact of rigorous training can sometimes be just as intense as the physical demands.

Terry goes on to explain the significance of mental health education for dance schools and companies, advocating for specialized training that helps educators understand the emotional well-being of their students. He highlights the importance of integrating mental health training for both dancers and teachers to create a supportive and healthy environment within the dance community.

To tackle the gap in mental health resources, Terry talks about STEPPS (Specialised Training and Education for Professional Dancers), an initiative that aims to provide accessible mental health support tailored specifically to dancers. STEPPS is a Social Enterprise Community Interest Company, meaning all profits are reinvested into projects designed to improve the well-being of the wider dance community. STEPPS offers mental health first aid training for dancers, free and reduced-rate counseling sessions, and educational opportunities for dance schools and companies to better support their dancers’ mental health.

This conversation shines a light on the urgent need for accessible mental health resources in the dance world and the important role of education and awareness in creating a healthier, more supportive space for dancers to thrive.

https://www.counsellingfordancers.com/about/





The artist's voicePetra Sittigmental health for dancers, mental health, STEPPS, Terry Hyde, Dance world, Ballet dancers, ballet school, ballet teacher