Multifaceted: art in Gstaad

Anyone with an international reputation in the contemporary art scene knows Gstaad. The pedestrianised promenade is home to renowned galleries, often housed in magnificent chalets. A dazzling who’s who of the art scene presents itself to guests in the Saanen region, always discreetly and with the occasional spectacular display. Galleries and collections are present all year round, while others are presented seasonally – each with thematic accents and temporary exhibitions. Anyone would like to see the works and meet the curators in a more quiet setting can do so by appointment.

Probably the most photographed object is the calf ‘Rosie’, who can be seen drinking from the fountain near the Posthotel Rössli. The statue was sponsored by Hollywood star and Gstaad fan Liz Taylor, and was designed by Taylor’s daughter Liza.

A fellow resident of the Gstaad promenade, the Sitting Duck was donated by Gstaad’s honorary citizen Dame Julie Andrews, who caused a sensation as the lead actress in Mary Poppins. Her husband Blake Edwards, who died in 2010 and who filmed and premiered his classic box-office hit The Return of the Pink Panther in Gstaad, moulded the peculiar duck sculpture out of bronze.

The fountain in the car-free zone in the centre of the village is another attraction, designed by local architect Fabian Reichenbach – a masterpiece and literal fountain of inspiration. Its water feature fascinates young and old alike and provides a welcome way to cool down in summer.

Various sculptures donated by regular guests line the promenade and blend seamlessly into the village landscape, providing a welcome visual accent. Donated by Ilse and Günter Leifheit, two graceful bronze figures play music at the entrance to St Nicholas’ Chapel, among other things. Günter was a co-founder of the International Menuhin Music Academy and a long-time chalet guest in Gstaad.