Building Together on Schatzalp: How a Giant Cat Emerges from Wooden Slats
In summer 2026, Schatzalp, above Davos, will transform into an open workshop for art, encounters, and collaborative construction. Together with the artist collective PIALETO, as part of the Art Garden Hotels initiative, a walk-in light sculpture in the shape of a giant cat will be created there. Approximately 4 x 7 meters in size, situated amidst the Davos mountains and directly in front of the historic Berghotel Schatzalp.
And the best part: Here, you don't just watch; you actively participate in the building process.
Cover image cat: AI design
Hands-on art, instead of 'Please do not touch'
PIALETO is known for large-scale participatory art projects where people create something together. Using simple materials like roof battens, surprising spaces, figures, and constructions emerge. At Schatzalp, this will become a glowing cat, which will later serve not only as an artwork but also as a meeting place: as a shelter during tours of the Alpinum, as a sun lounger with a view, or simply as a special place to linger.
During the construction week from July 13 to 17, 2026 interested individuals can become part of this project for one day. No prior knowledge, art degree, or perfect handling of cordless drills is required. Instead, curiosity, joy in working together, and a desire to help shape something special are all you need.
A Day Between Art and Mountains
The workshop begins in the morning at Schatzalp. Afterwards, participants will saw, screw, build, and experiment together. Step by step, a giant sculpture will grow from many individual parts.
In between, there will be time for conversations with the artist collective, for enjoying the view over Davos, and of course, for a shared conclusion with an aperitif. The ride on the Schatzalp funicular is already included in the offer.
Those who wish can combine their stay with an overnight stay at Schatzalp and experience the historic Art Nouveau hotel and the famous Alpinum.
Also ideal as a team event or group offer
In addition to the public build-along days, individual inquiries for groups are also possible, for example, for teams, companies, clubs, schools, or universities. Depending on requirements, additional services such as guided tours, aperitifs, overnight stays, catering, or other program items at Schatzalp can be integrated.
Inauguration Ceremony in Summer 2026
Following the construction phase, the cat will be officially inaugurated. A public inauguration ceremony is planned for summer 2026, bringing together guests, partners, media representatives, and interested individuals. This will establish the sculpture not just as a work of art, but also as a visible symbol of the Art Garten Hotels on Schatzalp.
