Shapes in White
What to do with all the snow?
The snow sculpture competition "Shapes in White" has been inspiring winter sports enthusiasts and art lovers alike since 1994. In the unique setting of the Silvretta Arena, 90% of which lies above 2,000 metres above sea level, breathtaking works of art are created from snow. The idea of creating an open-air gallery out of snow came from the Tourism Association Paznaun - Ischgl, who wanted to creatively stage the masses of snow. This simple but ingenious idea developed into an event that is now firmly anchored in the region's calendar.
Every year, international sculptors are invited to submit their designs. The best ideas are selected and the artist couples travel to Ischgl to chisel their visions into the snow. Within five days, sculptures up to ten metres high are created along the slopes, which skiers can experience up close. Thanks to the high altitude, the works of art remain intact for a particularly long time and turn every descent into a cultural highlight.
Annually changing mottos
From "Everyday objects" (1994) and "Wickie" (2010) to current themes such as "Climate and Future Mobility" (2023) - every year there is a new, creative theme that challenges the artists. For the 30th anniversary in 2024, the theme of the competition was "LEGO®".
With the sculptures placed directly on the slopes, the competition is not only an artistic highlight, but also an experience for winter sports enthusiasts. Visitors to the Silvretta Arena can look forward to combining art and sport in a way that can only be found in Ischgl.
A complete list of past mottos shows the incredible variety and creativity that characterises the competition. This is where history becomes visible - written in snow.
