Hannon Bothma was fascinated by beauty and fashion from a young age. He used to accompany his mother to Ophelia’s Hair Salon where he would sit cross-legged on the floor, mesmerized by the transformations women underwent after sitting under the cocoon hair dryers.
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."
Her career continued to flourish, and in 2023, Brigitte's outstanding performance earned her the coveted "Best Actress" award at the International Cannes Critics’ Society (ICCS) festival in Cannes.
Read MorePaul Jenkins boasts a career spanning over 44 years in jazz music, composition, arranging, production, and education.
Read MoreConsolata Maria Ikeh, Choir Director, is a second-year student at the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music in Rome, specializing in Choir Direction and Composition.
Read MoreGoran Bugaric oversees the operations of Vienna's tiniest couture house, epitomizing an unwavering dedication to design and craftsmanship.
Read MoreRoss Freddie Ray, the Director of International Development, is a distinguished British choreographer whose ballets have captivated audiences worldwide.
Read MoreJulius and Julius, known as Coverrun, have been captivating audiences since 2015 with their distinctive blend of house music and electrifying performances.
Read MoreAgainst the backdrop of humble beginnings in Ajangbadi, Lagos, Daniel's dedication to bringing ballet to his community shines through. His journey from self-taught dancer to founder of a thriving ballet school demonstrates the power of passion and determination.
Read MoreMelanie Day, Founder & Creative Director, developed a profound love for Jazz Dance early on, influenced by renowned artists like Lynn Simonson and Katiti King in NYC, and Dollie Henry,
Read MoreFrank Norbet, the passionate director of the Arusha Dance Company, dedicates his life to enriching the community through the transformative power of dance.
Read MoreBerenice Patrick is dedicated to integrating dance into PE lessons in schools through her personalized schemes of work, which incorporate chosen topics/themes while aligning with the National Curriculum.
Read MoreJoan Ellison is a highly acclaimed vocalist known for her remarkable vocal talent and profound understanding of classic songs, particularly those associated with Judy Garland
Read MoreViktor Krüger's diverse background certainly adds depth to his acting career. Transitioning from professional athletics and wrestling to acting and bodyguarding suggests a wealth of experiences that could inform his performances.
Read MoreIn the young boutique winery on Lake Zurich, Jonas Ettlin and Brian Serr focus on the love for each vine and nurture and care for it.
Read MoreWayne Wells has an impressive and extensive background in the world of stunts and martial arts. He has a combination of experience as a stunt performer, coordinator, and fight choreographer, along with his martial arts expertise and competitive achievements.
Read More"Emma van Heyn is a South African actor, musician, producer and songwriter. Having written and composed music since the age of six, she has built a vast body of work over the course of her career.
Read MoreBranimir Agovi, born in Albania in 1993, embarked on his musical journey at the Music and Art Private University of the City of Vienna in 2012.
Read MoreJamiel Devernay-Laurence is a Producer of dance-based experiences for stage, screen, events, in education and professional development.
Read More"Mia Zabelka is a noise artist, composer, experimental violinist and vocalist from Vienna. She studied the violin with Alexander Arnekov at the Vienna Conservatory and composition and electroacoustic music at the University for Music and Performing Arts Vienna
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