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."

Choreographing Change: The Story Behind Project Dance and Its Fearless Young Founder

I recently caught up with James Bamford, the founder and director of Project Dance, and his journey is seriously inspiring. James isn’t just a dancer—he’s also a choreographer, teacher, producer, creative, and the one running the business side of things too. What makes his story even more incredible is that he launched Project Dance back in 2018 when he was only 14 years old.

Starting a dance company at that age is no small thing. While most teenagers are juggling school and hobbies, James was building a platform for young dancers to express themselves and be seen. He wanted to make the arts more accessible and give emerging performers a real chance to grow, create, and take the stage. That kind of boldness and vision at such a young age is rare—and he’s been leading the company’s creative work ever since.

On top of that, James manages everything from choreography and teaching to organising shows, handling logistics, and making sure the company stays on track. He’s taught in both pre-vocational and vocational settings at places like the Bristol School of Performing Arts, RJT Dance Company, London Studio Centre, Stella Mann College, and Pineapple Dance Studios. A bunch of his students have gone on to train at top conservatoires, appear in films, and perform on the West End.

James is all about championing the next generation of dancers, and it’s clear that Project Dance is just one piece of what’s going to be a long, exciting career in the arts.

The artist's voicePetra Sittig15 April 2025arts, artists interview, ballet dancer, Choreographer, Project dance