Petra Sittig Photography - Vienna, Austria
Petra Sittig Photography - Photoshoots for Artists and Professionals
Black and White Man Portraits True Crime & Investigative Journalism Podcast Cover (1).jpg

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."

 

Gabriela Tollman: Making a film is a collaborative process where people inspire each other.

Gabriela Tollman, originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, is a distinguished graduate of UCLA's theater and film department. She has an impressive portfolio, having directed over ten short films that have been showcased at film festivals around the globe. Her works have not only won numerous awards but have also been featured on HBO, highlighting her significant impact in the industry.

Among her notable achievements, Gabriela wrote, directed, co-produced, and acted in THE LAST GUNSHOT. This film was featured in over 25 festivals and earned the prestigious International Cinematographer's Guild Award, leading to a screening at the Cannes Film Festival. Another of her acclaimed works is BIRTH OF INDUSTRY, a film that she wrote and directed. This project won the Los Angeles Short Film Grant, supported by Kodak, Panavision, and Filmmakers Alliance. BIRTH OF INDUSTRY was showcased in over 20 festivals and received the John Williams Award for Visual Excellence at the Cleveland Film Festival. Additionally, her film YOU TURNED BACK AND HELD MY HAND gained significant recognition, screening at numerous festivals, including the Sundance Film Festival, and earning widespread acclaim.

Gabriela's first feature film, SOMEBODY'S MOTHER, was released theatrically in October 2017 to enthusiastic reviews. The Los Angeles Times praised the film, stating, "Somebody's Mother tackles a terrible loss and its aftermath with knowing empathy." This compelling feature is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime, iTunes, and Google Play.

Continuing her journey in filmmaking, Gabriela recently completed the short film LOVELY and is set to direct the award-winning screenplay titled APART. Her body of work continues to grow, cementing her reputation as a talented and visionary filmmaker.

https://www.gabrielatollman.com/




The artist's voicePetra SittigGabriela Tollman, Filmmaker, Cannes Film Festival, John Williams Award for Visual Excellence, International Cinematographer's Guild Award