Discover the unique blend of street and piste art in Courchevel, where the L’Art au Sommet exhibition transforms the ski resort into a vibrant art gallery. This annual event, in collaboration with Galleries Bartoux, showcases stunning sculptures and street art by renowned artists, enhancing the winter sports experience with a cultural twist.
Since its inception in 2010, the L’Art au Sommet exhibition has become a staple of the Courchevel winter season, attracting art enthusiasts and ski tourists alike. The 2017 edition featured an eclectic mix of contemporary street artists and sculptors who brought their dynamic visions to the snowy landscape of the French Alps.
Visitors to Courchevel during the exhibition could expect to encounter an array of sculptures strategically placed at key points across the resort. Notable installations included life-sized figures of penguins, bears, gorillas, and tigers, crafted by artists like Julien Marinetti and Richard Orlinski. These pieces were not only positioned in the village but also on the pistes near major ski lifts such as Saulire, Chenus, and Vizelle.
In addition to sculptures, several street artists were invited to apply their vibrant styles to various elements within the resort. The famous Verdons gondolas, which transport skiers to the heart of Courchevel 1850, were adorned with unique artworks, transforming them into moving canvases that added a splash of color to the white backdrop of the mountains.
The Forum area, located opposite the Courchevel Tourism office, also received a makeover with brightly painted post boxes and large fabric canvases displayed around town. Celebrated artists including Gully, Mr. Brainwash, and JonOne contributed to these installations, infusing the resort with urban artistic flair.
To enhance visitor engagement with the art on display, the Courchevel Tourist Office organized free art tours led by a guide who is also a lecturer at the Pays d’Art et d’Histoire des Hautes Vallée de Savoie. These tours offered insights into the artworks and artists, providing a deeper understanding of the intersection between art and alpine culture.
A highlight of the exhibition was the live art demonstrations held at La Croisette in the center of Courchevel 1850. Artists such as JonOne and Seen performed in front of live audiences, creating new works and allowing spectators to witness the artistic process firsthand. These events not only showcased the artists' skills but also allowed for interactive experiences, making art more accessible to the public.
Courchevel is accessible via several nearby airports including Geneva, Chambéry, Grenoble, and Lyon, with Geneva providing the most frequent flight options. For a seamless journey from the airport to the resort, visitors can book a private car transfer, ensuring a comfortable and direct route to their accommodation in Courchevel.
For those bringing ski equipment, it is advisable to inform the transfer service in advance to accommodate the necessary gear without additional charges.
The L’Art au Sommet exhibition in Courchevel offers a unique cultural experience that marries the thrill of skiing with the intrigue of contemporary art. By visiting Courchevel, art lovers and ski enthusiasts alike can enjoy a winter holiday that goes beyond the conventional, filled with artistic discovery and alpine adventure.
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