Exhibition CreaArt - Art meets tradition

About the art of sgraffiti: «Sgraffiti» is the name of the craft that adorns the houses of the Engadine and contributes to the unmistakable charm of the villages. Sgraffito art originated in the mid-17th century and can still be found in Engadine villages today.

Sgraffito can decorate more than just Engadine houses. Its versatility and long durability are also attractive for today's applications. Technically, this is made possible by contemporary plasters that are traditionally processed.

In this country, sgraffito is practically equated with the building type of the historic Engadine house. In fact, sgraffito - the name comes from the Italian "(s)graffiare" = to scratch - is a centuries-old technique based on the manual processing of lime mortar and is widespread throughout Europe, sometimes under a different name or in a related application. It came to Switzerland in the Renaissance via Italy and became established here, especially in the Engadine.

About me: My name is Seraina Zeller (-Wetter) and I would like to combine art with tradition. My wish is to use the technique I have learned in a new way. I created my first sgrafitto picture with my grandfather in 2014. I didn't want to try the traditional version, but create something new - that's how modern art met tradition. Since not many people have mastered this technique, I am even happier and prouder to have been shown this technique by a professional. My art also contributes to my grandfather being remembered and his life's work being carried on. Together with him I created the first painting «Las lingias da vita - the lines of life».

I grew up in Val Müstair and now live in Guarda. My place of inspiration is therefore right on my doorstep. I have started my art project again in Guarda and take great pleasure in reinventing myself as an artist again and again. What also inspires me is the beautiful nature here in the Lower Engadine, all the new acquaintances and always discovering something new. I am happy to create something unique with my art and yet never lose sight of tradition.

Description of my works:

A piece of Engadine tradition for your home
Why only admire the beautiful Engadine houses on holiday when you can experience this in your living room every day?

Each painting is individual. Since my art is based on tradition, many patterns are similar. The patterns always have a meaning in the. Like the tree of life, for example, which stands for life, immortality, happiness or hope. The sun made of many stars stands for the sun and warmth. This symbol is often found as a sun sign on sundials. Furthermore, the stag symbolises renewal, spiritual growth and bearer of light. All these symbols and many more can be found in my works.

Lines of life - Lingias da vita
With your own life a picture with the lifelines- lingias da vita for your home.

The lifelines in sgraffito technique represent an abstract picture. With different questions about life, the lifelines are created for you personally in the sgraffito technique and in a picture. The lifelines are thus unique, personalised and tailored to your life. With your life, an art value is thus created.

Now I am looking forward to the exhibition in GuardaVal, to share my works and the tradition of sgraffito with you.

The exhibition at the Engadiner Boutique-Hotel GuardaVal is open to the public.