A GROWING FIXTURE IN THE VILLAGE CALENDAR
With its third edition, MAZE Art Gstaad has firmly established itself as part of the Saanenland winter season. From Thursday to Sunday, the familiar Festival tent in the centre of Gstaad once again became a meeting point for international galleries, collectors and, importantly, a large number of local visitors.

This year, one change was immediately visible: the fair has grown. The space in the tent alone was no longer sufficient, and for the first time, part of the adjoining indoor tennis hall was incorporated to accommodate the increased number of exhibitors. The expansion felt seamless rather than improvised, giving the impression of an event evolving naturally with demand. It is a clear sign that the format resonates with galleries and audiences alike.

Among the many highlights, one booth stood out for its quiet intensity. Dr Jörn Günther Rare Books, a first-time exhibitor at MAZE, presented extraordinary medieval manuscripts that offered a glimpse into the craftsmanship of another era.

The process behind these works is remarkable: one specialist would meticulously draw the ruling lines and mark the spaces reserved for future illustrations. A scribe would then add the text, occasionally leaving handwritten notes for the illustrator, indicating what should be depicted and how. Seeing these manuscripts up close made tangible a collaborative artistic process that unfolded centuries ago. In the context of a contemporary art fair, they felt both unexpected and perfectly placed.

But that was just one facet of the salon’s appeal. Leading international galleries, from White Cube to Pace, Perrotin to Thaddaeus Ropac, and many others, presented works that ranged from abstract and conceptual explorations to sculptural and design highlights. The fair’s deliberately manageable format encouraged meaningful engagement with each stand, inviting visitors to slow down and really look. 

Beyond individual discoveries, the overall atmosphere was notably positive. One exhibiting gallery told me that it is unusual for owners of large international galleries to remain until the final day of a fair; typically, they attend the opening and perhaps a VIP event. “Here, they stay until Sunday,” the gallerist remarked. That in itself speaks volumes about the quality of the encounters and the calibre of the event.

Local visitors I spoke with were equally enthusiastic. Many described MAZE as a welcome cultural asset for Gstaad, sophisticated yet approachable. The fact that entry is free was repeatedly mentioned as an important gesture, allowing anyone, regardless of budget, to engage with art at an international level.

With its thoughtful curation, expanded footprint and relaxed but serious tone, MAZE Art Gstaad continues to strengthen Gstaad’s position as more than just a winter sports destination, quietly reinforcing its role as a place where art, conversation and community meet.

Jeanette Wichmann

photos by Jeanette Wichmann and MAZE ArtGstaad 2026