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Saype returns to Villars for a monumental mural on Grand Chamossaire
Published on 03.07.2025
Saype Returns to Villars for a Monumental Mural on Grand Chamossaire
From 15 to 21 July 2025, Saype will create a new monumental outdoor artwork on the slopes of Grand Chamossaire. The mural will then be visible until beginning of August, weather permitting.
An internationally renowned committed artist
Contemporary artist Saype, famous for his giant biodegradable murals, is returning to Villars-sur-Ollon for the fourth time. He transforms natural spaces into powerful ephemeral artworks, visible from the sky and surrounding heights.
A unique, environmentally friendly technique
Saype creates his murals using 100% biodegradable paints made from chalk and charcoal. His artistic approach combines creativity with ecological commitment, producing temporary yet sustainable art.
A theme still kept secret
The theme of this new mural in Villars remains a surprise for now. This artwork promises to be one of the major artistic events of summer 2025 in Villars-sur-Ollon.
An exhibition on Saype in Villars
To find out more about Saype and his work, there are several explanatory panels in the Avenue Centrale of Villars, opposite the pharmacy.
The 2025 artwork unveiled
Finalised on the evening of 18 July, this new fresco by Saype covers a total surface area of 2,500 square metres. With this new work, Saype continues the poetic narrative he began several years ago on the summits of Villars. After building, observing, contemplating and drawing, the child returns to the foreground, ready to take the next step.
Saype’s monumental art in harmony with nature
Saype creates giant murals directly on grass, snow or sand, fully connected to the landscape. Each artwork is born from a deep reflection on the history, topography, and biodiversity of the site, aiming to convey a powerful message.
Before painting, he designs a scaled sketch and uses a precise grid on the ground, playing with perspective for an optimal aerial view. His natural pigments—charcoal and chalk—fade over time, embodying ephemeral art that questions memory and the present moment.
To extend his commitment, Saype also creates lasting works for collectors and institutions, serving as enduring witnesses to his artistic approach.
Come and see Saype's ephemeral work in Villars
Access
There are several options
- From the Roc d'Orsay cable car
From the top of the cable car, it's a 30-minute walk to the Grand Chamossaire (+130m ascent) to see the work. Take the same route down via the Roc d'Orsay to return by gondola, or continue downhill to Bretaye.
From the Grand Chamossaire on the way down, you can also continue on the Grand and Petit Chamossaire trail, which allows you to make a loop. Beware: this mountain hiking trail, which runs along a ridge, requires hikers to take extra care, have mountain experience, weather-resistant equipment and non-slip footwear. Hiking poles are strongly recommended.
- From Bretaye
After taking the Villars-Bretaye train, head for the Grand Chamossaire chairlift (a few dozen metres below Bretaye station). The chairlift allows you to admire the work of art without having to go up on foot (approx. 6 minutes' ride).
From Bretaye, you can also walk up to the Grand Chamossaire. It takes around 50 minutes to walk to the top (+380m ascent).
Ticket
- To use the ski lifts (train, gondola, chairlift), the Magic Pass is valid. A daily ticket is also available from CHF 17 (on sale at Villars train station, the Tourist Office, lift ticket offices, ticket machines and online).
Infiniment plus
sunnySummerExperiences to enjoy
Dolce Vista and Saype
L'infiniment plus Magazine | This summer, enjoy two unique experiences in the region: try the Dolce Vista and admire the fresco by the artist Saype, at the top of the Grand Chamossaire.