Light Art: Gerry Hofstetter/Photo: Frank Schwarzbach via Zermatt Matterhorn

Tonight, the American Flag Is Being Projected Onto the Matterhorn in a Display of Solidarity

News Art + Architecture
by Eben Diskin Apr 16, 2020

On the border between Switzerland and Italy, the 14,691-foot-tall Matterhorn mountain stands as a giant canvas for a message of support for the nations touched the most by the COVID-19 health crisis.

Since March 24, 2020, the iconic mountain peak has been illuminated daily with the work of light artist Gerry Hofstetter. From the projection of messages like “#stayhome” and “#hope” to a gigantic heart and national flags, the iconic Matterhorn stands as a beacon of solidarity during the pandemic.

Light Art: Gerry Hofstetter/Photo: Gabriel Perren via Zermatt Matterhorn

Light Art: Gerry Hofstetter/Photo: Michael Kessler via Zermatt Matterhorn

Zermatt’s official website explains, “With this light projection, Zermatt wants to give people a sign of hope and solidarity in these difficult times. The village shows solidarity with all the people who are currently suffering and is grateful to all those who are helping to overcome the crisis. Stay at home — you can follow the spectacle live via webcams.”

The projection starts at 10:00 PM and ends at midnight local time.

“A version of this article was previously published on April 6, 2020, and was updated on April 16, 2020, with more information.”

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