News
Saype returns to Villars for two monumental murals
Published on 29.06.2026
Giant murals by Saype at Roc d’Orsay and the golf course
Saype will create two new large-scale open-air artworks in Villars from 6 to 25 July 2026. These murals will then remain visible until early 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 fifth 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. Both artworks promise to be one of the major artistic events of summer 2026 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 2026 artworks
Artist Saype will be in Villars to create these two murals from 6 July until 25 July, depending on weather conditions. The first artwork will be created at Aiguille (Roc d'Orsay area), followed by the Golf mural (near the 5th hole).
The 2026 artworks, "Within Reach of the Sky", depict two children drawing the world they dream of after observing the world around them, gaining knowledge, and imagining their place within it. Here, the children become the creators of their own vision, turning imagination into reality while sharing their knowledge and inspiring one another.
Covering 4,650 m² and 6,300 m², the artworks are created using natural pigments such as chalk and charcoal. Designed to gradually fade over the course of several weeks, these ephemeral frescoes slowly give way to the landscape, allowing nature to reclaim its space.
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
Aiguille Mural (Roc d’Orsay)
- Take the Roc d’Orsay gondola from Villars to the upper station at Roc d’Orsay.
- Alternative: Take the train from Villars to Bretaye, then walk to Roc d’Orsay (approx. 20–30 minutes uphill).
- Alternative: Take the train to Bretaye, then the Grand Chamossaire chairlift, before walking downhill to Roc d’Orsay.
Golf Mural (near Hole 18)
- Take the train from Villars to the Golf stop (request stop). The artwork can be viewed from the restaurant terrace.
Recommended route to see both murals:
- Take the Roc d’Orsay gondola from Villars and admire the first mural at the summit. Then walk down to Bretaye and continue towards the Golf Restaurant. You can also take the train between Bretaye and the Golf stop (request stop). Return to Villars on foot or by train.
Tickets
- The Magic Pass is valid on all mountain transport (train, gondola and chairlift).
- A day pass is also available from CHF 17 (available at Villars railway station, the Tourist Office, the mountain lift ticket offices, ticket machines, on the train and online).
- Train, Roc d’Orsay gondola and Grand Chamossaire chairlift timetables are available here or at sbb.ch.
