Video Highlights of ST. MORITZ ART MASTERS 2015 "Italia" to introducing the 2016 ST. MORITZ ART MASTERS where American Art as Main Feature. St Moritz from 08/26 to 9/04

Tomorrow, on the 26 of August, the #stmoritz Art Masters will be launching in its ninth edition. Once more the art festival will be the highlight of the summer program in #stmoritz, as it does not only offer an extensive art program, but also creates the opportunity for extraordinary encounters.

The contemplative place in the Engadin was predestined for the project from the beginning:Situated in the geographical center of the dynamic economical region between Zurich, Munich, and Milan, #stmoritz with its breathtaking landscape setting has always been a meeting point for artists, intellectuals, economic decision makers and athletes, entrepreneurs and creatives from all over the world. Drawn to its rustic and cozy charm, many different visionaries and characters would meet, which allowed for unexpected encounters as well as an informal exchange of ideas and visions. The video show the Higlights of 2015 St Moritz Art Masters.

The encounter – a key element
For these reasons, Monty Shadow, founder and spiritus rector of the #stmoritz Art Masters, found the renowned small town in the Oberengadin to be the one and only right setting for his goal to create a platform that encouraged such encounters – inspiring, rewarding and not at last, unexpected. "St. Moritz is a unique place – it is no surprise to me that many artists have been intrigued with it. They continuously enrich the Engadin with their artworks as well as their intellectual influence". From the very beginning, the intention of the #stmoritz Art Masters has been to make this abundance of inspiration, wide-reaching vision and artistic perspectives on global affairs the setting for encounters. This serves as an explanation for the very international program of the exhibits whose focus this year will be on the American art scene.

With a varied, cross-genre program, the #stmoritz Art Masters (SAM) places this year's focus on the USA. The Forum Paracelsus will present drawings and sculptures by Robert Longo as well as an exhibition of Richard Avedon, presented by Idea books publishers, with participation of Leon Bruno Body and Clifford Coffin, while the group show at the Protestant Church will feature works by iconic American artists Robert Rauschenberg and Frank Stella. Not far from there, in the gymnasium of the local school building, Montblanc will show a selection from its Cutting Edge Art Collection, including works by Tom Sachs, Pat York, and Nicholas Forker. Extraordinary exhibitions can be seen at local galleries as well: Andrea Caratsch Gallery will showcase exquisite photographs by New Yorkb ased artist duo McDermott & McGough; Robilant + Voena will host a solo show by American shooting star Alexis Rockman; while Vito Schnabel Gallery, the latest star gallery addition, will exhibit works by Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Julian Schnabel, and Laurie Anderson. Last but not least, this year's gallery line-up will be completed by the show of renowned gallerist Karsten Greve.

Albert Watson and Cartier Award
As in the former editions of SAM, photography will be paid tribute as well. An extraordinary preview of "Kaos" by Albert Watson supported by Taschen publisher, will showcase the project - Big Five Volume 1 "Kaos" by Albert Watson - that will start in Milan ( Museo della Permanente November 2016 - January 2017).

At the Kempinski Grand Hôtel des Bains will showcase a best-of his legendary photograps. On 27 August 2016, Watson will be honored with the Cartier Award for his lifetime work.

At Kulm Hotel will present the book "GOAT – Muhammad Ali" by TASCHEN which does not only give a unique insight into the life of the recently deceased champion, but has also recently been complimented especially by President Barack Obama.

At Nira Alpina Hotel in Silvaplana will present Stefano Zardini Photo exhibition dedicated to Nyc

SAM 2016


Exhibitions:Albert Watson – Kaos / The Big Five Volume 1, at Kempinski Grand Hotel des BainsAmerican Art Robert Longo – Paintings, Drawings Forum Paracelsus

Richard Avedon , Ann Theophane (Theo) Graham – photography exhibition of Avedon's earliest muses at Forum Paracelsus

Robert Rauschenberg and Frank Stella Paintings at Protestant Church

Special Project. Private Collection View – By invitation only – Jeff Koons and his world