A dazzling beam of light and meditative sounds flow from the St. Nicholas Chapel in Gstaad, drawing visitors into an engaging experience that bridges past and present, sacred and everyday life. “Liminal Journey” is the latest installation by artist Emilio Ferro, and it transforms the historic chapel into a space of reflection and discovery. Running until 2 March 2025, this unique artwork invites all to step inside and experience the interplay of light, sound, and space before it disappears.

A white light beam, originating from a metal structure in the chancel, cuts through the nave like an immaterial sculpture. When the chapel door is open, the light spills out into the village; when closed, it remains inside, projected onto the door. This dynamic connection between interior and exterior symbolises the thresholds we cross in life—both physically and spiritually.

St. Nicholas, the patron saint of travellers, sailors, and merchants, inspires this piece, reflecting the universal nature of journeys—not only as physical movement but also as inner transformation. Ferro’s light sculpture, paired with a custom soundscape, highlights this duality, making the installation a must-see for those seeking a moment of contemplation and artistic wonder.

A sensory experience
Visitors to the chapel will be enveloped in a soundscape crafted by Ferro. Using underwater microphones, he recorded the natural sounds of rivers and streams in the Saanenland, transforming them into a sensory composition that enhances the immersive experience. Additionally, electromagnetic fields within the chapel were captured and integrated, making audible what is usually imperceptible to the human ear. These sounds create a listening and inner reflection journey, seamlessly merging with the visual elements.

"The light beam symbolises a threshold experience, as the title “Liminal Journey” suggests," explains curator Valentina Locatelli. "The light extends beyond the church door, linking the sacred space with the everyday world of the village." Locatelli is passionate about bringing art to unusual locations, making it more accessible to a broad audience. "Presenting this work in a chapel instead of a traditional gallery ensures that more people, including families, can engage with contemporary art in a meaningful way."

An invitation to experience art beyond the white cube
Pastor Marianne Kellenberger, who played a key role in the project’s realisation, was initially hesitant about incorporating an installation into the chapel. "A church is already a work of art, from its architecture to its stained glass windows," she reflects. However, she embraced the idea after hearing the artist’s and curator’s vision. "This project is not in competition with the church—it can even be seen as a theological statement, with the light of the world shining outward. More importantly, it connects people, drawing them inside and encouraging quiet reflection."

Visitors still have the chance to experience “Liminal Journey” before it concludes on 2 March. It is open daily, and there is free entry.

Exhibition Details:
Location: St. Nicholas Chapel, on the Promenade in Gstaad 
Dates: Until 2 March, 2025 
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM 

About the Artist and Organisers

Emilio Ferro
Born in 1988 in Alba, Italy, Ferro is an artist who combines light, sound, modern technology, and nature in his work.
Read more and follow Emilo on Instagram

art+château
The non-profit organisation art+château, in collaboration with Espace Muraille, conceived and realised the installation. Based in Bern, art+château showcases contemporary art in historic spaces outside the traditional "white cube" format, making art accessible to a broader audience. The organisation is led by President Valentina Locatelli.
Read more about art+chateau on Instagram

Espace Muraille 
Espace Muraille is an exhibition space housed in Geneva’s historic fortifications. It was co-founded by art collector and philanthropist Caroline Freymond, who also operates the “Menus Plaisirs” gallery in Gstaad.
Follow Espace Muraille on Instagram 

Based on AvS | SWO