Saype reveals his new monumental work

SAVOIE

Artist Saype reveals ‘Encordés,’ his new ephemeral work painted on the snow-covered slopes of the French Alps for the 20th anniversary of the Paradiski ski area in Savoie, France.

The French artist, known for his monumental frescoes found around the world, unveiled this new ephemeral piece painted directly on the snow at over 2,000 meters altitude in the mountains of the Paradiski ski area.

The work, titled "Encordés," consists of two creations, made with 100 percent natural and eco-friendly charcoal paint. Each of the two frescoes covers an area of 1,000 square meters.

In the artwork "Encordés," two children combine their efforts to scale a mountain and pave the way forward. Bound together, these two central figures are required to work in unison. Mirroring the unity of these children, Paradiski has linked two valleys and resorts; once distant, and now brought closer together.

Saype described the creation of his artwork, saying, "What inspired me in this Paradiski project was the connection between these stations via this incredible cable car and the decision of the local people to live, collaborate, and work together within the same ski area for 20 years. For logistics and execution, we faced numerous challenges. By drawing this roped pair of children, I wanted to show that working together and trusting each other, is essential to move forward and overcome the challenges we face."

In October, Saype unveiled a piece painted on rubble in the southern province of Hatay’s Antakya district, which received major damage in the devastating Feb. 6 earthquakes.

The black and white mural of two hands holding each other was painted on 1,000 square meters of rubble, in a space that was once home to residential buildings, a bakery and tailor.

He dedicated his project to the survivors of the earthquake on the ruins of the now unrecognizable ancient town.