Petra Sittig

Petra Sittig

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PERFORMING ARTS

Petra Sittig

I am talking to artists from around the world about their form of art, upcoming projects, concerts and performances. I believe that by hearing what artists have to tell, will inspire and motivate people and the importance of art in our lives will be better understood.

1 DAY AGO

Discovering the Art of Flamenco with Mitja Obed

In this interview, I talk with Mitja Obed, an exceptional Slovenian flamenco dancer whose artistic journey began as a Latin–American dancer. His introduction to flamenco came in 2007, guided by the renowned Ana Pandur in Ljubljana. Since then, Mitja has immersed himself in the flamenco world, collaborating with legendary dancers in Madrid and Sevilla. In our conversation, Mitja delves into his artistic philosophy and how flamenco serves as a medium for self-expression. For him, the rhythmic power of his feet becomes a voice that conveys emotion, telling stories without words. He talks about his daring experiments with flamenco, blending it with electronic music to create a fusion that bridges tradition and modernity. Beyond his love for flamenco, Mitja's passion for classical music shines through. He has choreographed breathtaking performances inspired by Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and envisions integrating the works of Johann Sebastian Bach into flamenco, merging these timeless compositions with the fiery spirit of the dance form. Join us for an inspiring journey into the life of a dancer who redefines the boundaries of flamenco, blending tradition with innovation and finding new ways to connect with audiences through the universal language of music and movement.

30 min
2 DAYS AGO

Exploring Identity Through Art

Join me for an engaging conversation with Jonathan van der Walt, a talented visual artist and sculptor from Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa. Jonathan’s passion lies in merging traditional and modern sculptural techniques, seamlessly combining lost-wax bronze casting with digital modeling and 3D printing. His work captures the power of form, space, and contour, creating pieces that range from naturalistic and conceptually playful miniatures to monumental public sculptures. In this interview, we dive into Jonathan’s latest exhibition, From The Woods To The Soil, created during his residency as the 2024 Artist-in-Residence at the William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG). This thought-provoking show critically examines his identity as a white African and delves into the cultural significance of braai—a shared ritual in South Africa often reduced to a simple celebration of barbecue. Jonathan shares insights on how his art explores themes of legacy, belonging, and the scars of colonialism. Through his work, he invites viewers to reflect on their own heritage and engage in a journey of cultural reconciliation. This conversation sheds light on how art intersects with decolonial and post-digital practices in South Africa, offering a raw and emotional perspective on self-discovery. Don’t miss this deep dive into the life and art of Jonathan van der Walt, as we unpack the stories and themes that shape his creative journey. Watch now and be inspired! http://www.jonathanvanderwalt.co.za/

1h 7m
3 DAYS AGO

Finding Hope in Unexpected Places

In this interview, Cas Wepener, Professor of Practical Theology at Stellenbosch University, shares his diverse work and creative passions. Cas provides a heartfelt exploration of a thought-provoking Advent calendar project he collaborated on, which features artwork by Wessel van Dyk and his own written reflections. This unique calendar takes a fresh approach to the Advent tradition by highlighting locations across Cape Town that can be seen as modern-day “stables,” echoing the humble birthplace of Jesus. These places—symbolic of shelter and hope—represent the struggles and resilience of those facing hardships during the festive season. Unlike traditional Advent calendars filled with chocolates, this one invites participants to look outward and reflect on the lives of others. It’s a call to compassion and mindfulness, encouraging a deeper connection to the true spirit of Christmas by considering the marginalized and vulnerable in our communities. The conversation also delves into Cas’s work as a novelist. His stories are deeply rooted in historical events, offering readers a vivid journey through time. His latest novel, Roman, is a compelling narrative based on true events, and Cas shares how his research in Cape Town's archives helped shape the story. He reflects on the process of bringing historical moments to life through fiction, capturing both the factual details and the human emotions that connect the past to the present. Specializing in ritual, liturgy, and homiletics, Cas focuses on religious rituals within specific cultural and social contexts. His recent research projects have included studies on rituals and social capital formation, rituals in fictive texts, and liturgies of anger. As the first editor of Bonding in Worship: A Ritual Lens on Social Capital Formation in African Independent Churches in South Africa (Peeters Press, 2019), Cas brings a deep understanding of how rituals shape communities. Whether discussing theology, community-focused projects, or his storytelling craft, Cas brings rich insights and inspiration to this fascinating conversation.

47 min
4 DAYS AGO

Paul Wuensche - Artist

Join me for a conversation with Paul Wuensche, a London-based figurative artist celebrated for his vibrant and captivating work. Paul's art has been showcased at prestigious exhibitions like the BP Portrait Awards, The Discerning Eye, and the Royal Society of Portrait Painters. He has also held solo shows at the Assembly Rooms Gallery and 9 Langton Street. Paul’s artistic journey began at the age of 11 under the guidance of the late George Israel RA, who instilled in him a love for color, tone, and oil painting. While his early artistic development flourished, Paul initially pursued literature and languages, specializing in Dante at Cambridge University, where he earned First Class Honours. Ultimately, his passion for painting led him to devote himself entirely to art. In addition to painting, Paul explores sculpting, particularly sculpted portraits, which has deepened his understanding of form and anatomy. He discusses how the tactile process of sculpting influences his approach to painting portraits, helping him see planes and structure more clearly, while painting, in turn, sharpens his sense of color and expression in his sculptures. Paul also reflects on a unique series of paintings he created during the lockdown while living in Barons Court. Isolated yet observant, he turned his focus to the buildings in his neighborhood, painting scenes of a single street. This process deepened his awareness of his surroundings and brought a renewed appreciation for the quiet beauty of everyday life, a sentiment many of us shared during that time of reflection and stillness. Peek into Paul’s artistic world and discover how his exploration of multiple disciplines enriches his creative practice. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more artist interviews and creative content! https://paulwuensche.com/bio/

1h 3m
5 DAYS AGO

A Conversation with Wessel van Dyk

Join me as I talk with Wessel van Dyk, an inspiring architect and urban designer based in Stellenbosch, South Africa. From a young age, Wessel dreamed of becoming an architect, sketching designs in the pages of old telephone books. His passion and determination carried him through the challenges he faced on his journey to realize this dream. In this interview, Wessel shares the influence of an early teacher and mentor who introduced him to the world of art, sparking a lifelong love for creativity. Alongside his work in architecture and urban design, Wessel is deeply passionate about etching and lino printing. He opens up about his experimentation with these art forms and how they connect to his vision as both an artist and a designer. Discover Wessel’s unique perspective on shaping spaces, his artistic processes, and how his South African roots influence his work. Whether you’re an aspiring architect, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of art and urban design, this conversation is sure to inspire. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with creative thinkers!

56 min
13 DEC

Breaking Boundaries in Music

In this interview, British singer-songwriter Amaree talks about her journey as an artist, her creative songwriting process, and how she’s forging her own path in the music industry. Known for her gritty, soulful voice and genre-defying sound, Amaree seamlessly blends timeless soul, melodic indie rock, acoustic vibes, and retro R&B into a body of work that feels both classic and fresh. Born and raised in London to Jamaican parents, Amaree grew up surrounded by a rich tapestry of musical influences. From her mother’s love for legends like Gladys Knight, Shirley Brown, and Millie Jackson to top 40 pop hits playing on the radio, Amaree’s upbringing shaped her ability to create music that is original yet warmly familiar. Her sound carries the echoes of great artists of the 70s while standing firmly in the present. Amaree also discusses her 10-year hiatus from the music business, a time marked by frustration with the gatekeeping and challenges of sharing her music with the world. However, her love for the creative process—the transformation of silence into something tangible and meaningful—brought her back. Now, with the help of social media, she’s connecting directly with her audience, bypassing traditional industry barriers. The feedback she receives online has been overwhelmingly encouraging, allowing her to stay grounded and inspired as an artist. As a live performer, Amaree’s charisma and sincerity shine. Whether delivering a heartfelt love song or tackling social issues, she connects deeply with her audience, conveying every lyric with conviction and honesty. This interview offers a closer look at how Amaree blends her rich musical heritage, personal experiences, and creative freedom to craft a style uniquely her own. A true artist has re-emerged, breaking boundaries and inspiring listeners in a modern, ever-changing music landscape. https://www.amareeofficial.com/#about

45 min
11 DEC

From Flipbooks to Animation Success:

Join me in this inspiring interview with Joseph Raina, a talented animator from Kenya who turned his childhood dreams into a thriving career. Joseph shares his incredible journey, beginning with humble sketches in a small notebook. By flipping the pages, he created his very first animations—simple yet magical beginnings that would spark a passion for storytelling through art. Despite facing challenges, such as limited resources and an old computer that often held him back, Joseph’s determination never wavered. He started small, creating animations for local businesses in his community. These projects were the stepping stones that eventually led him to larger, more ambitious works. Joseph’s resilience and creative thinking exemplify the power of perseverance in overcoming adversity. In this candid conversation, Joseph also opens up about the struggles of starting over after setbacks and how those experiences shaped him. Now, as the founder of his own animation company, Jose Animation Studios, he not only produces captivating content but also trains aspiring animators, giving them the tools to transform their artistic talents into sustainable careers. This interview sheds light on the untold stories of creativity and innovation emerging from Africa, where individuals like Joseph prove that dreams can be achieved even with limited resources. His story is a testament to how passion, hard work, and an unwavering spirit can lead to remarkable success. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or simply in need of inspiration, Joseph’s journey will leave you motivated to pursue your own dreams. Don’t miss this heartwarming story of triumph, resilience, and the power of creativity!

34 min
9 DEC

Breaking Barriers with the Violin

Join me for an lovely conversation with Isabelle Kašník, a multi-genre violinist with Czech and Angolan roots, as she shares her incredible musical journey and vision for the future of violin music. Isabelle's classical training at the Janáček Conservatory in Ostrava and the Academy of Performing Arts in Bratislava laid the foundation for her versatile career. She has performed in orchestras, chamber ensembles, and even explored Moravian folklore, but she also has a passion for taking the violin beyond traditional settings. Isabelle loves the freedom to use her instrument to connect with audiences who might not typically attend a concert hall, blending different genres to make violin music more accessible and engaging—especially for young people. A proud mother, Isabelle also talks about encouraging her son to play music. At a young age, he has already fallen in love with playing the guitar, reflecting her belief in music as a lifelong gift to be shared and passed down. Looking ahead, Isabelle is excited to explore her African roots by incorporating and experimenting with African music in her repertoire. She envisions blending her classical expertise with the rich, rhythmic traditions of African music to create something unique and deeply personal. This return to her roots is a journey of rediscovery and innovation, promising fresh perspectives and vibrant sounds. In this interview, Isabelle opens up about her love for both classical and contemporary music, her dedication to inspiring the next generation, and her plans to push the boundaries of what the violin can do. Don't miss this heartfelt and illuminating conversation! If you enjoy this interview feel free to subscribe for more inspiring stories from the world of art! https://iskamuse.com/bio/

36 min

I am talking to artists from around the world about their form of art, upcoming projects, concerts and performances. I believe that by hearing what artists have to tell, will inspire and motivate people and the importance of art in our lives will be better understood.

Creator

Petra Sittig
Years Active

2023 - 2024
Episodes

299
Rating

Clean
Show Website

Petra Sittig