In this interview, I speak with Dr Jenna Mikus, Founder and Managing Partner of the Eudae Group, about the formative experiences that shaped her interdisciplinary path and her deep interest in the relationship between environment, creativity, and well-being. Jenna reflects on her childhood curiosity and her early exposure to many different forms of art, made possible by parents who actively encouraged exploration and creative freedom. These experiences planted the seeds for a lifelong appreciation of artistic expression and its impact on how we see, feel, and engage with the world. Although she initially chose to study engineering, she shares how this analytical foundation later became a powerful complement to her creative instincts rather than a departure from them. During our conversation, Jenna describes the moment she began to recognize her growing fascination with architecture and the built environment, and how this realization bridged her interests in art, science, and human experience. She speaks about becoming increasingly aware of how the spaces we live and work in directly influence our health, well-being, and ability to thrive. This awareness ultimately informed her professional focus on designing environments that support people in being their best selves—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Drawing from her extensive experience across engineering, architectural design, and business strategy, Jenna offers thoughtful insights into how creativity and pragmatism can coexist, and why designing with intention is essential in today’s increasingly complex physical and digital landscapes. This conversation offers a rich and inspiring look at how early creative nourishment, technical training, and a human-centered philosophy can come together to shape a meaningful and impactful career. https://www.eudaimonicbydesign.com/resilience/jenna-mikus

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Dwaynica Greaves – a Neuroaesthetician, Neuroscientist, and creative thinker whose work sits at the powerful intersection of art, science, and education. Dwaynica shares her early background in the arts, reflecting on a lifelong love for drama and theatre, alongside creative writing, poetry, and reading. For her, words have always carried a deep expressive power – a way to explore emotion, identity, and human connection. These creative foundations did not disappear as her academic path evolved; instead, they became the very roots from which her scientific curiosity grew. During our conversation, Dwaynica explains how her passion for the arts ultimately led her toward neuroscience and neuroaesthetics. She discusses her current research objectives, which include investigating the social and cognitive effects of art training and art-making on the artist, with a particular focus on theatre. She also speaks about her work using wearable multi-modal technologies to study human social cognition, and her commitment to developing and facilitating sci-art interventions across the curriculum – from primary school through to higher education. A central theme of the interview is the importance of placing art at the heart of education. Dwaynica passionately advocates for giving children the opportunity to explore a wide range of artistic disciplines, not as extracurricular activities, but as essential tools for learning, self-expression, and social development. She highlights how creative skills cultivated through the arts can transfer into other areas of life and future careers, supporting critical thinking, empathy, communication, and resilience. Looking back, Dwaynica reflects on how her own artistic background continues to inform and inspire her research and teaching. Her journey is a compelling example of how art and science are not separate worlds, but deeply interconnected ways of understanding what it means to be human. This conversation offers rich insights into creativity, education, neuroscience, and the lasting impact of the arts – both in shaping individual lives and in reimagining how we learn and connect as a society.

In this inspiring episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Gary Smith — one of the most accomplished male trampoline gymnasts in British history. Gary achieved a historic 7th place at the 2004 Olympic Games and earned two European team bronze medals, marking him as a true standout in the world of trampolining. Gary shares how he first discovered his passion for trampolining and opens up about the dedication, discipline, and relentless training required to qualify for the Olympics. His journey didn’t end there. With a long-time dream of performing, Gary set his sights on Cirque du Soleil, where he expanded his skillset, learned the art of performance, and contributed to shows across the globe. He offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how Cirque productions come together and reflects warmly on the colleagues and experiences that shaped his years with the company. Today, Gary continues to make an impact as a Sport Development Strategist, working to ensure children have access to a wide range of sporting opportunities — including the unique benefits of incorporating circus arts into athletic training. This conversation offers a wonderful glimpse into what it takes to become an Olympic trampolinist, and how sport and art blend beautifully in the world of Cirque du Soleil. A truly uplifting and insightful interview.

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I talk to acclaimed violist Marc Sabbah, based in Belgium. In this rich and wide-ranging conversation, Marc shares insights from his recent concert tour in Japan, reflecting on the unique energy of Japanese audiences and the artistic growth that travel inspires. He gives insight in his newest recording project: the complete Six Bach Cello Sonatas, which he arranged and recorded on the viola. Marc talks about the fascinating similarities between the viola and the cello, the challenges and freedoms that come with adapting these iconic works, and the intimate relationship he has developed with Bach’s music through this process. As a professor at the Royal Conservatory of Mons, Marc speaks passionately about the importance of teaching young musicians how to create genuine connection with their audiences—not only through technical mastery, but through presence, intention, and authenticity on stage. Marc also introduces us to Trio Nomada, the ensemble he performs in with a violinist and a cellist. He describes the remarkable chemistry between the three musicians and how their shared musical language fuels a dynamic and adventurous chamber-music collaboration. This interview shines a light on Marc Sabbah’s artistry, dedication, and thoughtful approach to music-making—both as a performer and as an educator. https://www.marcsabbah.com

n this conversation, I speak with South African artist Lizl Bode, a self-taught creator from Cape Town known for her photorealistic monochrome works in graphite and technical ink. Lizl’s art is celebrated for its precision, emotional depth, and the way she elevates ordinary objects and portraits through careful observation. We talk about her studio, the place where she feels most at home and where her creative process unfolds with patience and intention. A true perfectionist, Lizl shares how she wants viewers to sense the care that goes into every line and layer of her work. She reflects on drawing inspiration from her own experiences, believing that authenticity can only come from what she personally knows and feels. Lizl also speaks about her deep connection to graphite as a medium, explaining how its slowness and therapeutic quality support the meditative nature of her process. Beyond her artistic practice, Lizl discusses her role as Regional Chair for the G100 Arts Leadership & Films Wing in Cape Town, and she expresses her hopes for the future—especially her wish for her studio to become a welcoming space where people can explore, create, and find inspiration. This interview offers a thoughtful and intimate glimpse into the world of an artist devoted to her craft, her community, and the quiet power of monochrome art. https://www.lizlbode.com

In this interview, I speak with Miyabi Matsuoka, a Japanese harpist based in Vienna whose powerful personal journey is transforming the way musicians relate to their art. Miyabi began playing the harp at 12, guided by her mother, also a harpist who encouraged her to strive for excellence. She went on to win numerous competitions and build an impressive musical career. But the intense pressure to be perfect, combined with years of demanding practice, took a serious toll on her health. Eventually, Miyabi became ill and realised her symptoms were rooted in mental and emotional stress rather than physical causes. In a courageous step, she stopped playing completely and spent the next 20 years studying psychology to understand what had happened to her. During this time, she developed the Miyabi Method, a holistic approach that blends psychology, body-mind awareness, and a healthier philosophy of music-making. Her book about this journey was warmly received and opened new conversations about mental well-being in the classical music world. Today, Miyabi plays with renewed joy and authenticity, teaches her method to others, and is writing a new book commissioned by Yamaha exploring cultural influences on how musicians approach their art. Miyabi’s story is touching, honest, and full of resilience. Her positive energy and beautiful personality shine through, making this conversation a truly uplifting experience.

In today’s episode of The Artist’s Voice, I’m joined by the brilliant Michelle Ulor — music psychologist, DJ, radio host, writer, and the founder of Kinos Studio, a pioneering music-psychology consultancy transforming how brands, teams and spaces use music. Michelle holds a PhD in Music Psychology, with a career that bridges both academia and industry. Her research, publications, and international conference work explore how music shapes wellbeing, connection and human behaviour. Through Kinos Studio, she brings this knowledge into practical, real-world contexts — helping clients such as Soho House, Design Hotels, Bupa, Lloyds Banking Group, ICA and Ministry of Sound use music with purpose, intention and impact. In our conversation, we dive into Michelle’s lifelong love for music and the experiences that led her to study it scientifically. We talk about her mission to close the gap between music research and everyday life, making the benefits of music more accessible, relatable and empowering. From DJing around the world to consulting for global brands, Michelle shares how she combines creativity, psychology and innovation in everything she does. This is an inspiring, thought-provoking discussion about the power of music — not just as an art form, but as a tool for wellbeing, connection and meaning. Enjoy the interview, and don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe for more in-depth conversations with artists around the world.

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with interior designer Rose Tanjoco, whose personal journey led her to the field of Neuroaesthetic Interior Design long before she knew the term existed. Rose began experimenting with design in the early 1990s, transforming her own home into a healthier, more nurturing environment for her family. When her daughter developed health and emotional challenges after an accident, she turned to research, natural materials, and intentional design to create spaces that supported calm, clarity, and healing. Years later, she discovered that the principles she had instinctively used were part of an emerging field called Neuroaesthetic Interior Design. Today, she helps others create homes that enhance wellbeing and support a more balanced, harmonious life. Rose’s work is grounded in the belief that our environment profoundly shapes our emotional, mental, and physical health. By blending scientific research with the art of interior design, she focuses on creating spaces that stimulate the senses in positive and purposeful ways, encouraging connection, comfort, and presence. Her approach integrates color, lighting, texture, sound, natural materials, and spatial flow to create environments that work in harmony with the brain’s response to its surroundings. The result is a home that reduces stress, elevates mood, and promotes a deep sense of ease and wellbeing. Her message is clear: when you change your personal space with intention, you transform your life. https://intentionallydesignedinteriors.com

In this interview I’m speaking with South African sculptor and installation artist Snelihle Maphumulo, an extraordinary young creative whose work is deeply rooted in both her Zulu heritage and her Christian faith. Snelihle was born and raised in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, and she studied Fine Art, Sculpture, and Visual Culture at Rhodes University. What makes her work so unique is the material she chooses to work with: sheep hide. In Zulu tradition, hide carries cultural significance—it's connected to ceremonies, identity, and ancestral heritage. But for Snelihle, the sheep hide also has a powerful spiritual meaning. It represents the biblical idea of God as the Shepherd and humanity as the sheep under His care. Through her sculptures and installations, she uses the hide to express the themes of protection, guidance, and faith. Her artworks often create quiet, contemplative spaces that invite you to reflect on the relationship between the physical material and the spiritual symbolism behind it. What I love about her practice is how she brings together two worlds—her cultural roots and her personal Christian belief—without separating them. Instead, she weaves them into a conversation, showing how tradition and faith can coexist and inform each other in beautiful and unexpected ways. In this interview, Snelihle shares how she transforms this traditional material into a message of hope, vulnerability, and divine connection. Her work is not just about sculpture—it’s about storytelling, identity, and the deep relationship between culture and spirituality.

In this interview, I speak with Evelyn Johnson, a classical singer based in Madrid. Evelyn shares insights from her extensive training at Saint Olaf College, The University of Texas at Austin, and Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, where she studied with renowned soprano and pedagogue Costanza Cuccaro. We explore Evelyn’s journey as a young singer, her many interests, and her entrepreneurial spirit, which later taught her the importance of nurturing other passions alongside a music career. She reflects on how discovering her own identity and individuality as an artist is essential, and how singers should be guided to find their own unique path rather than comparing themselves to others. Evelyn also talks about how starting her own business and pursuing other interests has allowed her to approach her music career with clarity, freedom, and less stress. She shares her vision for forming a vocal ensemble of eight female voices and offers wisdom on how to see possibilities in every aspect of a musical journey. Grounded, thoughtful, and inspiring, Evelyn’s story offers valuable guidance for young singers on how to approach their careers, embrace their artistry, and cultivate a sustainable, fulfilling path in music.

Former Hamburg Ballet dancer Lennart Radtke shares his inspiring journey from the world of professional ballet to costume and fashion design. Trained in the UK and Hamburg, Lennart talks about how a mentor helped him create his first wedding dress for a close friend, sparking his passion for design. He discusses the rewarding process of learning design by doing, the creative freedom it brings, and how his experience as a dancer gives him a unique perspective on costumes for movement. Lennart also shares his experience collaborating with choreographers, designing for performances, and his dreams for the future in costume and fashion design, offering inspiration for anyone interested in ballet, dance, creative careers, or fashion.

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, Petra Sittig speaks with Professor Spencer Harrison — a leading researcher on creativity, collaboration, and how people work together to make something extraordinary. Spencer’s work explores the magic of creative collaboration — that indescribable energy artists feel when everything “clicks.” Drawing from his studies of Grammy-winning bands, modern dancers, designers, and even NASA teams, Spencer reveals what really happens when people co-create, and why great art often emerges from powerful human connection. Together, we discuss how creativity thrives (or struggles) within today’s systems — especially in education. Spencer shares insights into how children’s natural creativity is often stifled early on, and why nurturing artistic exploration is essential for the innovators, dreamers, and problem-solvers of the future. ✨ Topics we cover: What makes creative collaborations so powerful How leaders and teams can create environments where creativity flourishes Why art and play are vital in early education How the education system shapes (and sometimes limits) creative potential Lessons from artists, musicians, and scientists about working together Whether you’re an artist, educator, or creative leader, this conversation will inspire you to rethink how we create, learn, and collaborate. About Professor Spencer Harrison: Spencer Harrison is a professor and researcher whose work focuses on creativity, collaboration, and organizational behavior. He has worked with companies such as Google, NASA, and Black Diamond, and his award-winning research has been published in top academic journals. He also co-founded the Creativity Collaboratorium, a global network of leading creativity scholars. Subscribe to The Artist’s Voice for more in-depth conversations with artists, thinkers, and visionaries who explore the power of creativity in our world.

Join Pretoria-based architect Ruan Erasmus as he shares his journey from learning under mentors to founding his own firm. He explores creative freedom in architecture, the importance of understanding a client’s vision, and why interiors are the heart of every building. Ruan also discusses reimagining 1960s South African homes, transforming spaces to add value to neighborhoods and communities. His love for architecture shines through in every insight — from discovering unexpected design moments to shaping spaces that truly matter. A must-watch for anyone passionate about architecture, design, urban renewal, and creating meaningful spaces.

In this inspiring conversation, artist Valeria Talian shares her journey from her birthplace in Bratislava, Slovakia, to building a life and artistic career in South Africa. Valeria moved with her family to Pretoria in 1990, where her father worked as a violinist. Although music surrounded her from an early age, her heart was drawn to the visual arts—spending hours visiting galleries and exploring different forms of creative expression. We talked about her early fascination with making and experimenting, and how this innate curiosity has shaped her path as an artist. After living in England for two years and later qualifying in Early Childhood Development, Valeria found herself returning to art as a powerful outlet for creativity. She began exploring diverse mediums—from mosaics, drawing, and painting to the ancient technique of encaustic art. Through years of experimentation—sometimes with surprising or even disastrous results—Valeria developed a distinctive mixed-media style that reflects both her European roots and South African experiences. Today, she continues to evolve as an artist and proudly exhibits her work at Art Africa Gallery, where her textured, layered pieces invite viewers into her world of colour, memory, and emotion. The Inspiration by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoon Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ #artistinterview #southafricanartists #petrasittigtheartistsvoice

In this deeply personal conversation, Magdalena Westman traces the arc of her life from her early years in a pastor’s family in Czechoslovakia to her transformative experiences in South Africa—where the seeds of her art therapy practice first began to take root. Growing up in a home filled with intellect, faith, and compassion, Magdalena’s childhood was shaped by both inspiration and challenge. Her family’s moral integrity during the years of political repression left a lasting imprint, instilling in her a sensitivity to human struggle and resilience. Those formative experiences would later find their way into her work, not through words, but through color, texture, and the spontaneous movement of the hand across paper. Our conversation moves gently between memory and meaning—how a sense of “being different” as a child became a source of empathy, and how the creative act became, for Magdalena, a path to freedom and healing. In South Africa, amidst new landscapes and cultural encounters, she began to sense art’s potential to bridge inner and outer worlds—a realization that led her to study and eventually teach art therapy after returning to the Czech Republic. Today, Magdalena is known for her intuitive approach to creativity—inviting people to reconnect with their childlike curiosity through mark-making, reflection, and presence. Her workshops and writings reveal how even the simplest doodle can become a doorway to emotional understanding and self-discovery. This interview offers a rare glimpse into a life shaped by courage, creativity, and compassion—and into an artistic philosophy that reminds us that healing often begins with a single, spontaneous line.

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, we meet Stuart Mckenzie — an extraordinary Cirque performer, teacher, and founder of Aerial Fitness Bodies (AFB). Born in London, Stuart began his athletic journey in gymnastics at the age of 12 and went on to represent Great Britain in Sports Acrobatics for a decade, where his Men’s Four team proudly achieved a World No. 1 ranking. After retiring from competitive sport, Stuart joined the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil, performing in four iconic productions — Saltimbanco, Kooza, Kurios, and Mystère. His artistry and athleticism now take flight in a new form through Air Skating, a breathtaking duo act he performs with Angela Kim. Air Skating beautifully merges the poetry and flow of figure skating with the raw strength and elegance of aerial straps. The pair glide, spin, and soar through the air, creating a dance that defies gravity — blending movement, music, and emotion into a truly unique aerial narrative. In our conversation, Stuart opens up about his transition from elite athlete to performing artist, the mindset and discipline required to master his craft, and the creative process behind developing Air Skating. He also discusses his innovative Aerial Fitness Bodies (AFB) program — a training platform designed to make the strength and artistry of cirque performance accessible to everyone through creative bodyweight movement and the use of his custom-designed AFB straps. This inspiring interview captures Stuart’s passion for movement, performance, and the limitless potential of the human body and spirit.

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Pamela Power, a Johannesburg-based television scriptwriter, script editor, novelist, and former actor. Pamela’s journey through the worlds of acting, teaching, and writing offers a fascinating glimpse into the craft of storytelling in South Africa today. She has worked on some of the country’s most beloved television productions — Top Billing, Generations, Rockville, and Uzalo — and currently serves as the script editor at Muvhango. Beyond television, Pamela is the author and co-author of several novels, including Ms Conception, Things Unseen, and Chasing Marian (written with Amy Heydenrych, Qarnita Loxton, and Gail Schimmel). In our conversation, Pamela shares how she first discovered writing, how real-life experiences often shape her characters, and why for her, storytelling can sometimes be a form of venting or healing. We also talk about patience, persistence, and the realities of building a creative career that doesn’t happen overnight. It’s an inspiring, down-to-earth discussion about creativity, resilience, and the everyday life of a writer.

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tanya Keggin, a Canadian artist who once worked for two decades as a marketing and advertising lawyer before following her true passion for art. From an early age, Tanya was drawn to painting and dreamed of a creative career, yet her many interests led her first into science and then into law. It was only years later, after building a successful legal career, that she took the courageous step of becoming a full-time professional artist. Tanya’s paintings are expressive and deeply evocative, often exploring the connections between music, memory, and emotion. Her elevated painterly style reflects her love of materials and the joy she finds in the physical process of creating—through bold brushstrokes, intuitive mark-making, and a striking balance of realism and abstraction. In our conversation, Tanya reflects not only on her personal journey from law to art but also on the broader importance of creativity in society. We spoke about how art shapes the way we think, solve problems, and make decisions, and why it is so valuable to nurture creativity in children from an early age. Tanya believes art education is not just about making future artists, but about giving young people the tools to think differently and approach any profession with imagination and confidence. Her story is one of courage, transformation, and purpose—an inspiring reminder that it is never too late to reconnect with creativity and allow it to shape both life and work.

In this episode of The Artist’s Voice, I speak with Hendrik Hofmeyr, often described as South Africa’s most performed classical composer. His works span opera, orchestral, chamber, choral, vocal, and piano music, and have been performed across Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. We discuss his opera Sara Baartman, which tells the true story of Saartjie Baartman, a woman of the Khoi community whose life and legacy remain an important part of South African history. Hendrik shares why he felt compelled to give voice to her story through music and the deeper cultural significance behind the work. Our conversation also explores how African musical traditions have influenced his compositions, including his album Partita Africana (Disques Triton, 2021), performed by Marika Hofmeyr (piano), Philippe Bernold (flute), and Berthilde Dufour (violin). This collection, whose title translates to “African Partita,” incorporates indigenous song and thematic transformation, reflecting Hendrik’s deep engagement with the sound world of the African continent. His music has also been featured and recognized in leading French publications. We also speak about the challenges and opportunities for classical musicians in South Africa today, and the significance of Hofmeyr’s works being included in the syllabus of classical music education. In recognition of his extraordinary contribution to South African music, Hofmeyr was awarded the prestigious triennial Hubert Rupert Prize for Classical Music by the South African Academy of Science and Art in 2025. Beyond his life as a composer, we look at his distinguished academic career: from lecturing at Stellenbosch University to serving as Professor and Head of Composition and Theory at the University of Cape Town until 2022, where he inspired generations of musicians and composers. https://hendrikhofmeyr.wixsite.com/mysite

In this conversation with Hannah Morris, we explore how psychology, neuroscience, and creativity intersect in her unique approach to transforming spaces. With a degree in psychology and ongoing studies in neuroaesthetics, Hannah brings a fascinating perspective to the world of property design and management—one that goes far beyond aesthetics. She describes how a home or workspace can become a true sanctuary when it’s designed not only to look beautiful, but also to feel intuitively right on every level. By blending the science of how the brain perceives beauty with the art of design, Hannah creates environments that soothe the mind, nurture calm, and ignite inspiration. When I first invited Hannah to join me for this interview, she shared with humility that she still feels “like a baby in this field,” in the midst of research and studies, shaping her methods and values. Far from positioning herself as an established expert, she embraced the opportunity as a challenge and a step on her creative journey. This openness and honesty make her insights all the more compelling. During our discussion, Hannah reflects on how her creativity has been with her since childhood and how she continues to draw inspiration from people’s stories. By listening deeply to others, she shapes spaces that resonate emotionally, leaving a lasting impact on those who experience them. This interview is a thoughtful dive into the power of neuroaesthetics, the importance of intuitive design, and the ways our surroundings influence well-being, creativity, and connection.