Ice and snow sculptures, redesigned lift cabins, modern artworks… For several years now, certain Alpine resorts have been embracing art in all its forms - ephemeral or permanent, modern or contemporary. Here’s an overview.
Valloire: contemporary art and ice sculptures
In Valloire, two major competitions return every year: the snow sculpture contest and the ice sculpture contest. For several days in January, towering works of art take shape under the hands of sculptors - spectacular creations of snow and ice displayed right along the village’s main street.
But Valloire offers more than winter magic. It also hosts an international straw and hay sculpture competition, as well as rotating temporary exhibitions. And throughout both summer and winter, the village’s magnificent 17th-century baroque church showcases works by leading contemporary artists.
- Ice Sculpture Competition – 13 to 16 January 2026
- Snow Sculpture Competition – 20 to 23 January 2026
- Straw and Hay Sculpture Competition – 24 to 29 June 2026
“Art at the Summit” in Courchevel
From the sculptures of Salvador Dalí to the watercolours of Jean-Michel Folon, every winter the resort of Courchevel transforms into an open-air museum. Created by the town and the Galeries Bartoux, the “Art at the Summit” exhibition unfolds through a series of large-scale installations displayed along the ski slopes, at different altitudes across the resort.
In recent years, art lovers and curious skiers in this chic Alpine destination have admired monumental works by a Costa Rican artist exploring the passage of time on matter - an inspiring reminder of the importance of sustainable tourism in protecting mountain resorts, villages and their fragile environment.
Among the standout installations from recent editions are the street-art sculptures of Lorenzo Quinn and the pieces by Bruno Catalano, which evoke themes of travel and exile. In 2025, the spotlight was on French sculptor Léo Caillard, known for his neo-antique-inspired creations.
Other resorts where contemporary art has found a home
Flaine, in Haute-Savoie, is one of those resorts that has become a true open-air art gallery, with a remarkable collection of monumental sculptures by artists such as Jean Dubuffet, Pablo Picasso and Victor Vasarely. An architectural trail and an art centre featuring annual contemporary exhibitions complete the visit.
In Val d’Isère, the Jane Griffiths Art Gallery provides a dedicated exhibition space for contemporary artists and regularly expands its collection. Visitors can discover works by Claude Viallat, Cédric Bouteiller and Coroner, among others.
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Several Alpine resorts have been hosting open-air exhibitions and vibrant galleries for years, offering something for every kind of visitor. All the more reason to go - while taking care to protect their fragile ecosystems. Choose low-carbon transport such as the train to reach the mountains, and once you’re there, make use of shuttles, horse-drawn carriages and other alternative mobility options that help preserve the environment. Enjoy your arty adventures in the heart of the Alps!
By Explore France
The editorial staff of France.fr follows the trends and news of destinations to bring you stories from France that reveal its innovations and traditions that make you long to (re) discover its territories.
