The SMArt programme aims to increase the perception of both decision-makers and the population as a whole of the challenges facing mountain regions, through artworks, and more particularly photographs or videos.

 

It has chosen to focus its attention on four themes, which affect all mountain regions around the world: climate change and natural risk disaster / water resources / migration / agriculture, biodiversity and food security / health.

 

Artists in residence

Within the framework of the SMArt programme, cultural partners in Switzerland welcome artists from the South or the East. During their stay, the artists create an artwork reflecting how they perceive and understand the challenges of their host region.

More than 30 artists have already participated in the programme and brought their very personal look on the reality of mountain regions.

 

The residence at Château Mercier 2023

Dates:
01 August to 31 October 2023

 

Place:
The residence takes place in the Villa Ruffieux, in Sierre, a small city in centre of Valais. It is located at the feet of Val d’Anniviers a touristic mountain valley and close to Crans-Montana ski resort.

Villa Ruffieux was built in 1902 and is part of the Château Mercier estate. Since 2011, in collaboration with the Canton of Valais and the City of Sierre, the Villa Ruffieux is an interdisciplinary artist's residence centre. This property of about 4 hectares, including the castle, the park and its outbuildings, offers individual rooms in a vast house where the common areas (kitchen, living room, etc.) are shared.

 

Exhibition:
Indoor exhibition of the project, in Sierre, from end of October to end of December 2023 (exact dates and location to be confirmed).

More about the registration