The 3-D Foundation

The 3-D Foundation is a non-profit cultural organization dedicated to promoting contemporary art, environmentalism, and education through its Artist Residency and Sculpture Park and Creative Space.

Founded in 2010 by Swiss/American New York-based artist Madeleine Paternot and British/American Verbier-based artist Kiki Thompson, the pioneering organization creates an experimental and educational Artist Residency and Sculpture Park at 2,300 meters altitude, inspired by the stunning Alpine landscape of Verbier, Switzerland.

The Foundation’s mission is to support both emerging and established artists, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zones and develop new works that engage with environmental themes. Artists are challenged to rethink traditional practices and create site-specific works that explore the evolving relationship between nature and contemporary art.

Through its research-driven, climate-focused Artist Residency, the Foundation fosters artistic innovation, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and critical dialogue on sustainability. The Verbier 3-D Sculpture Park, an open-air museum, provides year-round public access to thought-provoking works. The Creative Space art studios serve as a cultural hub, offering artist-led workshops, student programming, and community engagement.

Honored to be recognized by Art Basel as the second best residency in Switzerland and invited to present at COP28, the Foundation stands at the forefront of art and climate action. To date, we have supported over 34 international artists, of which 30% are American or U.S. based, including Cannupa Hanska Luger, Will Ryman, Tessa Perutz, Andy Moerlein, Donna Dodson, Musa Hixson, Olaf Breuning, Natalie Ball, Onyedika Chuke, and Gregory Coates.

Our impact includes:

• 130 workshops and educational initiatives, reaching 76,000 visitors annually through public exhibitions and artist talks.
• 70 climate-focused artworks, reinforcing our commitment to using contemporary art to drive environmental awareness.
• Digital programming expanding our reach to 24,000 people globally, connecting artists, scholars, cultural institutions, and collectors.
• A recent university internship partnership with Vassar College, NY, strengthening our engagement with U.S. institutions and offering students career development.