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."

 

Layers of a Life: Valeria Talian on Creativity, Change, and Finding Home in Art

In this inspiring conversation, artist Valeria Talian shares her journey from her birthplace in Bratislava, Slovakia, to building a life and artistic career in South Africa. Valeria moved with her family to Pretoria in 1990, where her father worked as a violinist. Although music surrounded her from an early age, her heart was drawn to the visual arts—spending hours visiting galleries and exploring different forms of creative expression.

We talked about her early fascination with making and experimenting, and how this innate curiosity has shaped her path as an artist. After living in England for two years and later qualifying in Early Childhood Development, Valeria found herself returning to art as a powerful outlet for creativity. She began exploring diverse mediums—from mosaics, drawing, and painting to the ancient technique of encaustic art.

Through years of experimentation—sometimes with surprising or even disastrous results—Valeria developed a distinctive mixed-media style that reflects both her European roots and South African experiences. Today, she continues to evolve as an artist and proudly exhibits her work at Art Africa Gallery, where her textured, layered pieces invite viewers into her world of colour, memory, and emotion.


The artist's voicePetra SittigSouth African Artist, visual art, Multi medium art