Vernet was based for many years in Los Angeles, where he worked on feature films before turning his visual skills toward directing television commercials for prestigious clients worldwide. Now pursuing his first passion, photography, Vernet is back at his old stomping grounds in Gstaad. 

The photographer has released a series of highly graphic black and white works entitled “Silence Within Walls”. The series features photographs taken with Vernet's special technique, which adds density and contrast before being printed on cotton paper, giving the feel of a charcoal drawing.

Merci Le Rosey

In a sense, Vernet has the school to thank for his career as a photographer.

“The only formal photographic training that I ever had was through the photo club at Le Rosey,” Vernet admits. “My first few rolls were shot on campus in Rolle and Gstaad during my attendance from 1969–71, and many of them made it into our yearbook.” 

The Saanenland is just one of many places to host Vernet’s series, but it’s here that he feels the series is “coming home,” much like he did himself several years ago.

“I definitely caught the photography bug here in Switzerland,” says Vernet, at his quaint chalet that faces the Rosey campus on Ried hill. “It has been in the past three years that I officially spend my time (when not traveling and shooting) here in Gstaad both in-and between-season.”

Exhibition in Gstaad

The AIAR (Association Internationale des Anciens Roséens) has been a big help in promoting Vernet’s work. It's no coincidence that Vernet has chosen to host his exhibition during the Rosey alumni weekend to show his thanks to the organisation. 

“Silence Within Walls” was shown at the Milan Image Art Fair in Singapore this past fall, as well as in Paris at the art&miss Gallery in the city’s Marais neighbourhood. The Samasi Gallery on Gstaad’s Cheseryplatz will host Vernet’s photographs from February 12–27, 2015, Monday through Saturday from 3 to 6 pm and by appointment.