In the Shadow of the Alps

Dear Art Lovers and Friends of the United States,

Art, like music, transcends time, boundaries and language. It reflects emotions and experiences that we all share, but remains open to interpretation, making it universally accessible. The exhibition, “U.S. Sculptors in St. Urban - In The Shadows Of The Alps,” epitomizes the cross-cultural reach of art and is an event that the U.S. Embassy in Bern is proud to support.

Sculptural works by eleven American artists set against the backdrop of Switzerland’s beautiful Alpine scenery is a compelling representation of the deep ties and mutual appreciation that exist between the United States and Switzerland. This exhibition, which according to the organizers is the first of its kind in Switzerland, is a product of the long and vibrant history of cooperation between the United States and Switzerland in the fields of art, music, architecture and countless other disciplines. The shared respect we have for each other’s cultures is a great asset for Switzerland and the United States, as it creates a basis of common understanding and maintains open lines of communication between our respective populations.

On behalf of the U.S. Embassy in Bern, I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations to the artists and organizers who have contributed to the “U.S. Sculptors in St. Urban - In The Shadows Of The Alps” exhibition. Special thanks go to Heinz and Gertrude Aeschlimann-Kohler who invested a considerable amount of time and energy to bring this exhibition to fruition.

I wish you an enjoyable visit and hope that through your tour of the exhibition, you are able to gain a better understanding of the United States of America.

Peter R. Coneway
Ambassador