"The idea is that the music is quality enough and that the illustrations are fun enough so that the whole family can enjoy it", says Chanda VanderHart.
Read MoreThe 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."
"I think once you divide art into these different categories then we have trouble. I always say that the best technique is to be able to express your intention up to the fullest.
Read More"The thing with ballet I find, it's a real team effort because sometimes the runs are very long, or there are many shows.
Read More"We met people from all around the world, so it was very interesting me how, at that moment, when everything stopped, we were able to connect in some other way with others by teaching and in some weird way "travel".
Read More"It's not just the hitting, because hitting the drum is of course really important.
Read More"What I like when I teach recipes, for me it's not just to learn the recipe, do this, do that. For me people should really embrace cooking.
Read More"It's a very popular instrument though it has evolved so much during the last 50 years and you can do so many more things than you used to do or hear.
Read More"There's a tremendous power in art healing us. But it's not because of the art itself, but it's because of the slowing down our lives from this hectic race we're running and we don't know where we're running to.
Read More"The old vine blocks that you find in each region truly are unique. You can truly see the difference that different soils can have on such an old block…
Read More"I think if you have a passion for it, don't ever give up on your passion.
Read More"For me the organic things is just a natural thing to do. If you're just a consumer you don't necessarily think about it.
Read More"So that, for me, is where the aeroplane and individual harmony needs to come into it's own. Where, it doesn't matter what happens, you're so in one with the plane, you're able to do literally whatever they can throw at you." says Patrick Davidson
Read More"And I think even across the cultures and especially now where South African music is, and South African communities are after 24 years of democracy, the new South can be heard in the sound of the choirs.
Read More"You need to be the renegade. You need to be the gorilla and just go out there and try something totally different," say Master distiller, Hendré Barnard from Jim and Tonic Distillery.
Read More"I have a theory that we love blue porcelain so much because you rarely get blue in nature. The places you see blue is in the sky and in the ocean.
Read More"After 41 years in the game, well I think I've had the most fantastic flying career anybody could have had. I'm very lucky," says Colonel Tony Smit who is leading the Spitfire restoration project in South Africa.
Read MoreIt's ok if we take a step back and breathe a little bit, and do things a little differently.
Read More"Writing with a certain place of performance in mind always changes some things" says Singer and Songwriter Cesár Sampson.
Read More"The ideal situation is where nobody has to accommodate you, they just have to assimilate you." says Actor, comedian and writer Melt Sieberhagen.
Read More"If I don't believe in the wine, I don't put it in the bottle." Says Brad Paton, winemaker at Buitenverwachting wine Estate.
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