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."

 

Michelle Veenemans and Miro Chakaryan - The voice follows the violin instinctively.

South African based dramatic coloratura soprano, Michelle Veenemans, hailed as “The Nightingale of South Africa” by the South African media, regularly appears in numerous recitals, oratorio concerts, opera and operetta concerts and charity gala events collaborating with various South African orchestras, ensembles and accompanists. She is an admired exponent of oratorio, opera and operetta arias and established her reputation in singing showpiece arias such as Martern aller Arten from Mozart’s Die Entführung aus dem Serial, and Der Hölle Rache kocht in meinem Herzen from Die Zauberflöte, arias from Offenbach’s Olympia, Gounod’s Juliette, Verdi’s Gilda and Bernstein’s Cunegonde.

Bulgarian Miro Chakaryan, concert master of Johannesburg Philharmonic orchestra, was born in Sofia, Bulgaria. He graduated from the National Music Academy in Sofia in 1990 and the following year arrived in South Africa as Concertmaster of the Bophuthatswana Chamber Orchestra. After a two year conctract he joined the National Symphony orchestra in Johannesburg where he was appointed Assistant Concertmaster. After the cessation of the NSO in 2000, he was one of the founding members of the Johannesburg Philharmonic orchestra and was appointed concertmaster in 2001. Miro is a sought after violin mentor and has had great success with many of his students winning prestigious awards.

https://www.michelleveenemans.com/profile.php

https://jpo.co.za/

https://wmfestival.co.za/