Woodworking and Sculpture
The centuries-old tradition of wood and stone carving in Saint-Oyen, brought to new heights of excellence by contemporary sculptor Siro Viérin.
Woodworking and Sculpture in Saint-Oyen
The craft traditions of the Aosta Valley have their roots in the rural life of the past: during the winter months, when work in the fields came to a halt, families used materials provided by the surrounding natural environment (particularly wood and stone) to handcraft everyday objects, tools for the home and the countryside, and toys for children.
Over the years, this craft tradition has achieved levels of artistic excellence thanks to the establishment of woodcarving schools and the work of master sculptors.
Siro Viérin, one of the most prominent artists in the Aosta Valley, lives and works in Saint-Oyen. Having been drawn to sculpture since childhood, Viérin turned his passion into a profession: a recipient of prestigious awards, he has mentored numerous students and enthusiasts throughout the region over the years.
One of his monumental works is on display at the Étroubles Open-Air Museum, a village that is also home to the ArtEtroubles sculpture school, which organizes courses and exhibitions to promote the valley’s woodcarving tradition.
Étroubles Open-Air Museum
The first open-air museum in the Aosta Valley: a permanent contemporary art exhibition winding through the stone-paved alleys of the medieval village.
Saint-Oyen
At 1,373 m above sea level along the Via Francigena: Saint-Oyen is a historic waystation village, nestled among pastures, pine forests, and Alpine cuisine, home of Jambon alla Brace.
How to Find Us
The Great St. Bernard Valley lies in the heart of the Western Alps: the road connecting Italy and Switzerland via the Great St. Bernard Pass. The area is easily accessible from major urban centers