Panorama 2025

Panorama

WELCOME TO PANORAMA

CONNECTING THROUGH VISUAL ARTS

Dr. Marc-Frédéric Ott HEAD OF SCHOOL

Welcome to the 2025 edition of Panorama! This year, our magazine takes you on a captivating journey exploring how the visual arts connect us across cultures, generations, and boundaries. Within these pages, we invite you to indulge in the inspiring stories and experiences of an extraordinary lineup of individuals: actors, museum owners, producers, directors, illustrators, painters, special effects artists, and more.

Last October, my family and I visited the historic site of Pompeii near Naples, Italy—a city that was buried under volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius over 2,000 years ago. The stunning architecture, intricate frescos, mosaics, and statues left us breathless. What struck me most was observing visitors from around the world, speaking different languages yet united in awe of what we were all experiencing. It reminded me of our G12 TOK and FOLK Cultural Trips to Italy, where our students also immerse themselves in the beauty and history around them.

Another cherished memory is watching the epic film Lawrence of Arabia (1962) with my daughter in 2018 (when she was seven years old) before traveling to Saudi Arabia for a large alumni reunion graciously hosted by the Al Othaim Family P'06. Having spent part of my childhood in Saudi Arabia, it was deeply enriching to revisit with my daughter after experiencing the movie’s breathtaking visuals and narrative. Together, we marveled at the desert’s golden sunset and enjoyed the unmatched hospitality of a traditional Bedouin camp—a vivid and unforgettable experience that beautifully mirrored the film's iconic scenes.

In this edition of Panorama, we celebrate how visual arts serve as a bridge, fostering international understanding and promoting shared values that unite us in the simple yet profound joys of life. Welcome to this visual arts odyssey, and we hope you enjoy every page of inspiration and connection.

Panorama

VOL. 39 NO. 1 SPRING 2025

EDITORS MICHELLE TURNER, KATY MAGUIRE LUSHMAN WITH THANKS TO MOLLY TAYLOR, EMMA DIXON

GRAPHIC DESIGN MICAH PURNELL DESIGN STUDIO

PANORAMA IS PUBLISHED ANNUALLY FOR ALUMNI, FAMILIES, AND FRIENDS OF LEYSIN AMERICAN SCHOOL IN SWITZERLAND. © 2025

THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN ARTICLES DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THOSE OF LAS OR PANORAMA

LEYSIN AMERICAN SCHOOL ADVANCEMENT OFFICE PHONE +41 24 493 4888

WEB LAS.CH

EMAIL ADVANCEMENT@LAS.CH

LAS HEAD OF SCHOOL MARC-FRÉDÉRIC OTT

LAS SCHOOL BOARD

CHAIR STEFANIE OTT P’18, VICE CHAIR PASCAL STEFANI P’18, MARC-FRÉDÉRIC OTT, JEFF PAULSON

LAS FOUNDATION BOARD

PRESIDENT K. STEVEN OTT

DORIS OTT, STEFANIE OTT P’18, MAURIZIO FABBRI, PHILIPPE BAUDRAZ

JANE SMITH ‘98 IS AN LAS ALUM, CLASS OF 1998

JANE SMITH P’14, ‘16 JANE HAS TWO CHILDREN WHO ARE LAS ALUMNI CLASSES OF 2014 AND 2016

From the Head of School

From the Editors

Fernanda Torres P'26

Gauri Khindaria '94

Holly Hines '94

Abi Tariq '09

The Slim Family P'19

Ilsse Peredo '15

Kenny Clark '13

Christina Scannapiego '95

Moonny Tsagaan '16

Mercedes Castellano '90

Adriana La Lime '10

Arts at LAS

Changemakers: Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship at LAS

Visiting Scholars

The Bosshart Family P'26

Abu Dhabi with Sofiia Tuholukova ‘21

The Louvre Abu Dhabi

FROM THE EDITORS

MICHELLE

Director of Institutional Advancement

Associate Director of Institutional Advancement

Each year, Panorama invites us to reflect on the stories, people, and passions that shape our global community. This year, we turn our focus to the visual arts—a powerful thread that connects us across cultures, continents, and generations.

Art has long served as a universal language. It captures the essence of a moment, conveys emotion, and offers a lens through which we can explore our shared histories and diverse perspectives. Whether through painting, cinema, photography, or design, the visual arts open windows into new worlds and foster deeper international understanding. In these pages, you’ll find stories of creativity, connection, and the transformative power of art. Together, the voices of our Global Family reveal how storytelling through the arts invites us to see the world— and one another—with greater empathy.

We hope this issue inspires you, wherever you are in the world, to pause and reflect on the ways the creative arts have shaped your own journey—and how they continue to bring us all a little closer together.

TURNER

KATY MAGUIRE LUSHMAN

ART

THE ART OF UNDERSTANDING AND THE POWER OF STORYTELLING

WITH

Fernanda Torres P'26

From a sunlit New York hotel room, Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres P'26 reflects on her latest film, I'm Still Here, for which she won the Golden Globe for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama, and the Oscar for Best International Feature Film. Her eyes light up as she describes not just the film's success, but its deeper resonance with audiences worldwide. "Art creates empathy," she says, "which is something that the world is lacking nowadays." This ethos cuts to the heart of both Fernanda’s work and the transformative power of creative arts in bringing people together across cultural boundaries, and is a value that she, as the parent of a current student (Antonio ‘26), shares with LAS.

A LEGACY OF STORYTELLING

Fernanda comes from a family steeped in Brazil's rich artistic tradition. Her mother, Fernanda Montenegro, known as the "first lady of Brazilian cinema," has

been a towering figure in Brazilian arts for decades. Torres herself began acting at 13, eventually winning Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival at just 20 years old. But rather than rest on these early accolades, she has continued to evolve as an artist—acting, writing novels, crafting scripts, and performing a successful monologue that has run for two decades.

"When you work with your family," Fernanda explains, "you get to know them not only as a mother or father but as colleagues. It changes the relationship." This intersection of family and artistry reaches its apex in I'm Still Here, where Torres stars alongside her mother in a powerful story of resilience and renewal. >

MORE THAN A PERIOD PIECE

I'm Still Here tells the story of Eunice Paiva, a mother of five whose life is shattered when her husband, a congressman, is arrested and killed by Brazil's military dictatorship in 1971. But as Fernanda emphasizes, this isn't just a historical drama— it's a mirror reflecting contemporary challenges to democracy worldwide.

"It's a film about now," Fernanda insists. "The young people of today were born during a long democratic period in the world. So perhaps they think that democracy is the problem." The film explores how political repression affects not just its direct victims, but entire families and communities, forcing them to rebuild and reinvent themselves.

What makes the story particularly compelling is its departure from expected narratives. "This woman never cries in front of the children," Fernanda notes. "She lacks cliché." Instead, the film shows how each family member must process their loss in their own time and way—a nuanced portrayal of grief and resilience that resonates across cultural boundaries.

BRIDGING GENERATIONS THROUGH ART

Just as the film bridges the past and present, Fernanda sees the creative arts as crucial in connecting generations and cultures. She observes this through her own son's experience at LAS, where exposure to diverse perspectives has enriched his understanding of the world.

"Before his experience at LAS, I don’t know if Antonio would have known art, were it not for our family working in the industry,” she reflects.

This observation highlights a crucial challenge in our digital age: how to nurture cultural awareness and empathy when algorithms tend to reinforce existing viewpoints rather than challenge them. It's a challenge that artists like Fernanda and educational institutions like LAS are uniquely positioned to address.

THE POWER OF PROJECTION

Fernanda believes in art's unique ability to foster understanding through what she calls projection—the capacity to imagine oneself in another person's situation. "You can teach a child about a period of history," she explains, "but it's never as complete as when they imagine a projection of themself and think, 'If I were this person...'"

This power of projection is what makes creative arts such a vital force in bringing people together. Whether through film, theater, music, or visual arts, creative expression allows us to step outside ourselves and experience the world through different eyes. It's a principle

that resonates deeply with the LAS mission of fostering global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding through education and the arts.

As I'm Still Here continues to gather acclaim on the international stage, it stands as a testament to art's ability to transcend borders and connect hearts. In an increasingly fractured world, stories like these remind us that through creative expression, we can find common ground and mutual understanding—one story, one performance, one shared experience at a time.

BEHIND THE SCENES CAMERA SHOT

FROM SCHOOL STUDIOS TO STREET ART IN THE HIMALAYAS

with Gauri Khindaria

For Gauri Khindaria '94, being a "third-culture kid" wasn't just part of growing up—it became the foundation of a remarkable 25-year career in graphic design that spanned from MTV to Rockstar Games. Now, with just a backpack and small suitcase, she's embarked on a new creative adventure that's taking her from Istanbul to Tasmania, from Melbourne to the mountains of Ladakh. >

‘94

"Being a third-culture kid allowed me to just simply be a global citizen," Gauri reflects. Her time at LAS helped shape this worldview, fostering an environment where she learned from people of many countries and developed her individual voice. "I credit LAS for my ability to work in harmony with people from all walks of life. I have learned that being non-judgmental, open, and humble goes a very long way in embracing diversity rather than fearing it."

This perspective served her well throughout her career, particularly during her 21-year tenure at Rockstar Games, where she led international marketing campaigns for blockbuster titles like Grand Theft Auto V and Red Dead Redemption II. Her approach to creative work, which

This multicultural perspective led her to found the Himalayan Grove Collective in 2017, a project inspired by the collaborative street artists who became her friends in NYC. She brought Mexican street artist Senkoeone to her family's village in the Himalayas, engaging local children in painting their village center. "Painting the village bus shelter and a wall brought the community together with pride," she shares. "The smiles on the kids' faces, for me, were priceless."

For Gauri, art serves as a universal connector that transcends cultural boundaries. "People learn so much about society from observing ordinary things such as a piece of furniture, garments,

"Art helps expand our horizons and break down harsh judgments."

she calls "play," emphasizes research, collaboration, and continuous learning.

"I think people underestimate the time, effort, and thought required to design and create anything unique," she explains. "The process requires teamwork, problem solving, creativity, ideas, and play to create something meaningful and beautiful." Her philosophy centers on using "we" instead of "I," promoting shared goals and collective achievements over individual recognition.

Her creative foundations were laid at LAS, where despite not considering herself "the best art student," she found her comfort space in the studio. The International Baccalaureate Programme played a crucial role, with teachers like Mrs. Lunn encouraging her aspirations and Mr. Sharp instilling the power of research and curiosity. "I was beginning to mesh my personality between being Indian, my love of music and taking in the experiential art that I got to see around me in Europe," she recalls.

textiles, typography, architecture, photography, music, dance and theater," she notes. "Art teaches that there are no right or wrong answers; rather beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I feel that it helps expand our horizons and break down harsh judgments."

After leaving Rockstar Games in spring 2024, Gauri's current journey of global exploration represents a new chapter in her creative story. With her background in design, her experience bridging cultures, and her endless curiosity, she continues to demonstrate how creativity can connect people across continents and cultures. "Being aware of your surroundings and continuously feeding your mind, emotions, and five senses helps keep the creative juices flowing," she reflects.

It's a philosophy that has served her well from the art studios of LAS to the streets of New York and London, from the gaming world to the villages of the Himalayas, and now as she charts her next creative adventure.

CREATING ENTERTAINMENT THAT CONNECTS: HOLLY HINES '94 ON VITAMINS IN ICE CREAM

In the ever-evolving landscape of global entertainment, Holly Hines ‘94 has mastered the art of what she calls "putting vitamins in the ice cream"— creating content that not only entertains but also nurtures meaningful conversations and cultural understanding. As co-CEO and Founder of Happy Accidents, a studio specializing in films and series, Hines has become a pivotal figure in shaping how stories are told and shared across cultures.

"Entertainment can foster a narrative, create empathy, or introduce new ideas to large swaths of people, often without the audience realizing it," Holly explains. This philosophy has guided her remarkable career, which includes her role as Executive Producer of the NETFLIX phenomenon Ginny & Georgia and previously serving as Head of Network Development for Spotify Studios.

GLOBAL STORIES, UNIVERSAL CONNECTIONS

Holly's approach to storytelling was shaped by her time at LAS, where she learned firsthand about the power of shared experiences with students from different countries. "I think about the connections I made with people from all over the world," she reflects. "We're not so different after all. We all long for the same things...to be healthy, happy, pursue our passions, and make a good life for ourselves and our family."

She fondly remembers attending Japanese tea ceremonies at KLAS and going on LAS Faculty Family trips that brought together students from different backgrounds. "The Faculty Family trips with kids who were not normally in your classes or social circles were incredible builders of a shared

experience," she recalls.

This understanding of universal human experiences influences how she evaluates potential projects. "When looking at stories I want to tell or be a part of, I evaluate the commerciality of a concept and its deeper meaning," she says. "What is it that people will connect to? What are we trying to say? How do we show a person, location, or issue in a light that is the most digestible to a large audience?"

CREATING

CONVERSATIONS THAT MATTER

One of Holly's most recent successes, Ginny & Georgia , exemplifies her commitment to meaningful storytelling. The series has become a catalyst for important family discussions about challenging topics. "I've heard from a lot of parents who watch the series with their kids, and it opens the door for conversations about topics including systematic racism, body dysmorphia, sex, alcohol and drug abuse, depression, self-harm, and income disparity and inequity," she shares.

This approach to content creation—embedding important messages within engaging entertainment—has been a constant throughout her career. While at Pivot TV, Holly worked with a team that created social outreach campaigns that complemented their shows: Please Like Me, addressing mental health and LGBTQ+ experiences, and Fortitude which explored themes of global warming and pandemics. >

HOLLY HINES ‘94

"I think about the connections I made with people from all over the world—we're not so different after all."

THE POWER OF MEDIA IN SHAPING UNDERSTANDING

Holly's appreciation for the media's influence on cultural understanding was sparked during her time at LAS. She recalls studying World War II propaganda in Mr. Skove's IB History class: "It really hit me that not only does every side have their own story, but how powerful the media can be in influencing the narrative of entire generations and countries."

This awareness has informed her career choices and her belief in entertainment's ability to drive social change. She points to historical examples like Star Trek, which featured a multiracial bridge crew during the era of segregation, and Will & Grace, which she believes "changed the face of gay rights in the United States."

OPENING DOORS FOR FUTURE CREATORS

Holly is passionate about encouraging others to consider careers in entertainment. "All too often there's this worry that the arts—film, TV, theatre—isn't a reliable or lucrative career choice. But it's a huge industry, and audiences always want new content that makes them feel something," she explains. She emphasizes that there are numerous paths into the industry, from creative roles to technical and business positions.

As she continues to shape the future of entertainment through her new studio, Happy Accidents, Holly remains committed to creating content that brings people together while addressing important social issues. Her work demonstrates how the creative arts can serve as a universal language, fostering understanding and connection across cultural divides – a lesson she first learned among the diverse community at LAS.

"I believe that entertainment can create a world that allows people from other ideologies to be gently introduced to new concepts or ways of thinking," she reflects, “but the ice cream with vitamins still has to be delicious."

CAST OF GINNY & GEORGIA

Connection is everything to Paris-based Pakistani artist and facilitator Abdullah (Abi) Tariq ‘09. While his life hasn’t followed a straightforward path—“I always knew I would be unconventional”—there is still an undeniable flow to his journey. Individual moments in his story elucidate how each decision propelled him to where he is now.

FROM TRADITIONAL PAKISTAN TO INNOVATIVE LAS

Abi has long known that he is different and has embraced this quality. While he could have taken the traditional path and continued to attend one of hundreds of Cambridge-system schools in Pakistan (with a focus on rote learning), he instead looked for alternatives. When his bold admissions essays gave him a choice of international boarding schools, it was his connection to Switzerland, through family in Geneva, that swayed him toward LAS.

It was here in Leysin that he made his next key connection. Abi credits one faculty member in particular with playing a significant role in who he became. Kim Cope Tait (an author, yogini, mother, surfer, seeker, educator, and healing arts practitioner) was an English teacher at LAS at that time. Finding a mentor like her, one who enabled a free-spirited approach, was crucial to Abi’s development.

“She lit my spiritual fire, and it will be lit forever.”

Ms. Cope Tait introduced him to yoga, meditation, and poetry, and her multi-disciplinary interests are mirrored

BREAKING NORMS &BUILDING BRIDGES

Abi

Tariq ‘09

in Abi’s description of his own style— an overlap of “magic, spirituality, and absurdity.”

EXPANDING TO THE WORLD OF ART

When Abi started making art, he began to explore ‘conceptual art’; beyond the retinal, cerebral art, the art of ideas and language. His 2018 piece New Gravity is described as a “mind sculpture—a thought that births a fictive reality in your mind for just a moment, or longer if you choose to hold it there.” The role of art is thus to inspire change, open new perspectives, and celebrate difference. Difference is an element that is abundantly reflected in Abi’s life. He thinks positively about being different and remembers how he was accepted without question at LAS. “LAS takes you for who you are. There was never any judgment because difference is expected in such an international community.”

Descending the ski slopes for the first time felt like a dream to Abi, and it would have been easy to be overwhelmed by unfamiliarity. Instead, he saw togetherness all around him. “In that group, we were all just 16, going through the same thing at the same time, living the same experiences and growing together.”

Broader differences within our culture, such as power, privilege, vulnerability, and social expectation, are all examined in Abi’s art and his personal expression. Speaking about his manicured hands,

“You never see silver nails on a Pakistani.” But in his view, societal codes are made to be broken.

BREAKING NORMS TO BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER

Breaking societal codes was a little trickier to do in the “real world” after LAS. To be somewhere far less international after the utopia of LAS was tough, but he knew he had to work hard to get what he wanted from life.

Taking his first steps after higher education, Abi started out in the creative world and joined Australian visual artist Honi Ryan in 2015 to help grow her Silent Dinners project—a series of performance art events that has spread from Australia to a dozen different countries.

Each Silent Dinner features between two and 200 participants who come together for a meal without speaking, reading, or writing for a two-hour period. The resulting “social sculptures” become statements on globalization, multiculturalism, and the power of communication.

FROM INITIAL CONNECTION TO TRUE COMMUNITY

Silent Dinners and the desire to facilitate experiences for people laid the foundation for the next direction in Abi’s life. He got involved with AFIELD, an international network of cultural changemakers formed in 2014, that supports and connects visionaries worldwide who empower their communities. Gradually, Abi “graduated” from

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DIFFERENCE

being an artist—though he knows and loves that he will always be one—and is today the Director of Programs and Community Manager at the heart of the AFIELD network. He guides knowledge exchange and community building by bringing together artists, thinkers, and changemakers.

Even with such creative-sounding roles, AFIELD’s work is far from abstract— network members are “grassroots practitioners who creatively solve social problems.” They interact directly with their communities, learning from each other and addressing real problems in innovative ways.

DRIVING TOWARD IMPACT

It may not come as a surprise that the artist in him still cares about how his work is perceived, but Abi isn’t after fame or recognition. Instead, he talks about the importance of children seeing real and tangible change in their communities through his projects and others. “People go to a nine-to-five job and they are doing something that’s not really making the

world a better place. I want to question the system, to make a bigger impact.”

One of his impactful AFIELD collaborators is fellow Pakistani Yasmeen Lari, who became her country’s first female architect in the 1960s. In 1980, she co-founded the Heritage Foundation of Pakistan to conserve historic monuments and heritage sites across the country.

At 81 years old, Yasmeen is still working with communities, helping create carbon-zero villages of flood-resistant houses in remote areas. Abi is full of praise for the way she has shifted her own professional role since retiring from architectural practice in 2000 to continue making an impact on the community.

As he talks about the other projects being carried out by AFIELD members, it’s clear that Abi shares many of the same passions as Yasmeen. From the Palestinian Heirloom Seed Library, which preserves crop biodiversity, to book exchanges in Indonesia, his mantra of cause and effect, of flow, remains the same. “Question the system and innovate

IS EXPECTED IN SUCH AN INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY

solutions to make the world a better place.” In bringing together people who can challenge the norm, Abi has found his own way to flow from art to advocacy for the role that artists play in making a tangible impact in society.

MUSEO SOUMAYA: REFLECTING CULTURE, BUILDING COMMUNITY

with THE SLIM FAMILY P'19

As the most popular museum in the sixth-most visited country in the world, Museo Soumaya believes in the power of the universal language of art. Its vast collection in Mexico City is home to nearly 70,000 pieces from over thirty centuries. Named for the grandmother of an LAS alum (Soumaya Romero Slim ‘19), designed by her father, and run by her family through their foundation, Museo Soumaya is both a stunning architectural achievement and a treasure trove of remarkable works. It provides the perfect setting for exploring how art and education work hand-in-hand and enrich one another.

CONNECTION

At the heart of the museum’s vision is a desire to connect deeply with its community, transforming art into a two-way conversation. From Van Gogh to Rivera, art serves as a bridge to international understanding. Yet Museo Soumaya also encourages visitors from Mexico to reflect on their own history and heritage. Exhibits showcasing popular and traditional elements of Mexican culture spanning decades provide powerful opportunities for personal connection.

Fostering such personal connections is a key aspect of generating appreciation of and engagement with art: every visitor brings their unique interpretation, adding to a shared, collective experience. Sharing these differing points of view creates a rich context in which art can be viewed and experienced as a collective. The museum’s mediation exercises, workshops, and activities are all designed to bring out these viewpoints and encourage reflection.

CONTEMPLATION

With an incredible range that includes centuries of pieces from European masters, religious relics, an extensive coin collection, and artifacts from ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, Museo Soumaya holds vast potential for exploring and sharing artistic interpretations. The museum identifies the value of this discourse in the way that contemplation can explain even the most alien topics. This very theme of unfamiliarity is one explored in the temporary exhibition Ciudad de los Palacios. Currently located in the museum’s Plaza Loreto headquarters, it casts a critical eye over the historic center of Mexico City, where many significant buildings have been lost, damaged, or converted for new purposes. Showing sights that will be familiar to many locals in a way they may not have seen before prompts people to reflect on the city’s changes and the social issues that surround them.

While celebrating differences, Museo Soumaya also uses art as a tool to showcase our similarities. Art can invite dialogue and open the doors of understanding. It can help us identify the commonalities that make us part of a community. In this way, it will be easier to recognize how we complement each other. Just as visual arts allow us to examine and interpret the world, they also allow us to get closer to other peoples and nations, encourage empathy towards historical moments, and provide tools to reflect on the world in which we live.

EDUCATION

The museum explores art’s complementary role in education, pointing out how art collections can transport us through time and space to bring theoretical topics to life. When art adds depth to subjects previously confined to textbooks, giving them a face, a backdrop, and real-life examples, it’s clear that art and education must go hand in hand. This approach is echoed in the LAS commitment to moving education beyond the confines of the classroom.

Museo Soumaya carries out that mission daily. Local artists and students regularly work in its rooms, and music, dance, and stage performances fill its spaces with fresh artistic creation.

Over its 30 years of operation, Museo Soumaya has built strong links with the local community, particularly with educational institutions and charities. It considers promoting the reintegration of the social fabric a key part of its goals, and its work with disadvantaged groups is a clear testament to that.

With such philanthropic values at the forefront, the museum is an active extension of the Carlos Slim Foundation’s work, and they describe the safeguarding of Mexico’s artistic and cultural heritage as an honor and a responsibility. Offering free entry every day of the year across all four of its locations, Museo Soumaya continues to share the power of art to bring its diverse audiences together.

THE ART OF CONNECTION: THE JOURNEY FROM LAS TO TRANSFORMATIVE VISUAL ARTS

ILSSE PEREDO '15

hen Ilsse Peredo ‘15 speaks about art, she describes it as more than just a form of expression—it's a revolutionary act of connection, a tool for awakening consciousness, and a path to collective healing. The Mexicanborn, Miami-based visual artist has built a practice that spans photography, ceramics, installations, and performance art, each medium serving as a bridge between cultures, emotions, and shared human experiences.

"What makes art so powerful is how it makes you feel deeply and leaves you vulnerable," Ilsse explains. "It unlocks parts of yourself you didn't even know existed, opening pathways to self-discovery and growth."

Her journey as an artist was significantly shaped by her time at LAS, where she found herself immersed in an international community that expanded her worldview. "Living with people from all around the world opened me up to perspectives I had never encountered before," she reflects. "It didn't just shape my creativity; it reshaped how I look at the world."

This global perspective influences her multifaceted approach to art. Through photography, she creates mirrors to society, pushing viewers to think critically

about existence. Her ceramic work grounds her connection to her Mexican heritage, while her immersive installations engage all senses, creating spaces where people can be fully present in a world that often feels fragmented. Her recent exhibition “Nieve de Mamey” with renowned gallery Homework at Untitled Art for Miami Art Week 2024 exemplifies how art can unite diverse audiences through shared emotional experiences. The mamey, a fruit deeply rooted in Mesoamerican culture, symbolizes fertility, life cycles, and the interconnectedness of past and future, offering a profound metaphor for embracing loss and renewal as part of life’s natural rhythm.

"In that room, people from all backgrounds could see themselves in the work," Ilsse says. "We all became united by a common purpose: to feel. It was a moment where art brought people together in a meaningful way through a collective experience of healing."

For Ilsse, education plays a crucial role in fostering this kind of connection through art. She emphasizes that institutions like LAS need to empower students to recognize their voices as powerful tools for change. "Compassion isn't passive—it's a verb, an action. It's revolutionary and the moral fabric for peace," she asserts.

"Give students the tools and the stage to stand up, speak out, and create with compassion at the core. Teach them that they are the solution."

Looking beyond her own mediums, Ilsse sees powerful potential for cross-cultural connection in unexpected places, like culinary arts. "Behind every ingredient and technique lies a history, with recipes passed down through generations, blending ancestral wisdom with the innovation of today," she observes. This perspective reflects her broader view of art as a means of preserving and sharing cultural heritage while pushing boundaries and fostering innovation.

Through her work, Ilsse continues to demonstrate how art can serve as a universal language, transcending cultural divides and speaking directly to the human experience. Her journey from LAS student to established artist shows how education, combined with creative expression, can build bridges between cultures and create spaces for collective understanding and healing.

"LAS DIDN'T JUST SHAPE MY CREATIVITY, IT RESHAPED HOW I LOOK AT THE WORLD."

CRAFTING CINEMATIC MAGIC: THE ART OF VISUAL EFFECTS

WITH KENNY CLARK '13

As an FX TD (Effects Technical Director) at Industrial Light & Magic, a visual effects studio specializing in creating CGI for feature film and television, Kenny Clark ‘13 creates and simulates photorealistic computer generated elements (think: fire, explosions, destruction, water, and magical effects) in the service of stories.

Tell us about your creative process.

My creative process is all about problem solving—it’s the driving force behind all my work. As a visual effects artist, the first problem I face is simply the unknown: how can I do what is asked of me technically, what tools or techniques will I use to create a desired effect. Next, how can I do this efficiently and on time, because ultimately VFX is an industry with deadlines and production costs. Finally, and most importantly, how can I create an effect in service of the story that I am helping to tell? Can I convince the audience that what they are seeing on screen can exist in that world? It is this rush of problem solving and creativity that both challenges and excites me. What do you love about working in the creative arts?

Creative problem solving motivates a lot of people in this industry and I love taking on varied tasks each week. As one project (or “show” as we call them) winds down, another is on the horizon to challenge me in a new way, whether that's in artistic direction, scale of work, or the technology used. What would people be surprised to learn about the special effects industry?

I think what really surprises people about our industry is just how much blood and sweat goes into every single shot they see on screen, even those that are just a few seconds long. A team of artists will work on a single shot, moving it through the “pipeline” over the course of weeks, or even months, to achieve the photoreal quality that makes the shot believable in the story.

It is also interesting to see people from various professional backgrounds come together within this industry. Because there is no educational blueprint for these jobs, I get to work with people from all walks of life: architects model sci-fi buildings; painters create digital matte paintings for backgrounds and

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KENNY CLARK ‘13

"ART PROVIDES AN OPPORTUNITY FOR US TO SHARE OUR THOUGHTS AND BRIDGE WHAT DIVIDES US."

skies; photographers and filmmakers apply their knowledge of light and frame to simulate lighting in 3D scenes. I came from a computer science and information technology background (a far cry from an arts program), yet now I’m a visual effects artist! How was your creative spirit nurtured at LAS?

I can point directly to Mr. Padick’s yearbook and multimedia classes where I was first introduced to Photoshop, video editing, and photography. These skills culminated in a memorable senior year film project where I created action-packed sequences with muzzle flares, blood puffs, and tracers for a short little film—these classes offered a glimpse into what visual effects can add to a story.

Have your creative projects kept you connected to other members of the LAS Global Family?

It’s always fun to text my LAS friend group chat to tell them about my latest wrapped show. Sometimes they will go see one of my projects in the theater and stay for the credits, excited to find my name (or disappointed that they missed it!) in the sea of names that help make a movie come together.

Can art bridge cultural divides to create a more interconnected world?

I believe the existence of art, and the act of creating it, is enough to connect us to one another. Films can bring friends and strangers together, murals shed light on current issues—art provides an opportunity for us to share our thoughts and bridge what divides us, even subconsciously. Even without narration or text, visual art can convey universal themes across cultures: struggle, love, fear, and hope. Without the barrier of language, we quickly realize that our lives aren’t so different—we all experience the same ranges of emotions. Art is central to our humanity.

INNOVATION MEETS TRADITION: A FUSION OF ART AND TECHNOLOGY

WITH CHRISTINA SCANNAPIEGO '95

As the arts industry becomes increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and digital tools, LAS alum, artist, and marketing director Christina Scannapiego '95 demonstrates how embracing innovation while honoring traditional craft can lead to unexpected creative breakthroughs. Her journey from traditional artist to tech-savvy creative professional embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and adaptability that defines modern creative careers. You might be surprised to learn that Christina uses a photo reference for every piece she creates. What makes her approach distinctive, though, is how she adapts this traditional technique for the digital age: "With AI, I can generate my own photo references and create whatever piece I'm working on using the reference of my dreams. I can prompt AI to generate a photographic image of a woman sitting next to a tiger with wings in the middle of a field of flowers if I want to. Of course, it's just a reference—I let my own artistic expression and skills take it from there.” Christina’s fusion of classical methodology and cutting-edge technology exemplifies how artists can

embrace new tools while maintaining their artistic integrity.

FROM SWISS ALPS TO DIGITAL PEAKS

While Christina’s creative passion began when she was very young, her time at LAS proved instrumental in developing both her artistic vision and adaptability. "When you’re on the LAS campus, you

"With AI, I can generate my own photo references and create whatever piece I'm working on using the reference of my dreams...I let my own artistic expression and skills take it from there."

can't turn a corner without taking in vast expanses of intense beauty, creative architecture, and the most vivid colors you've ever seen with your naked eye." The Leysin environment provided not just visual inspiration but also fostered the innovative thinking that would later help her navigate the intersection of art

and technology.

She maintains connections with fellow LAS creatives through social media, finding inspiration in their diverse approaches and successes. "I love to see what my LAS classmates are doing in their adult lives. It's so motivating and inspiring to see their different creative styles, ideas, and successes."

THE UNIVERSAL LANGUAGES OF ART AND MUSIC

Christina sees art as a universal language. “Everyone can be empathetic to the human experience, any human experience,” she reflects. “Our personal stories and how we communicate them artistically have the power to transcend cultural divides.” Music also plays a significant role in Christina's life and creative journey. "One of the LAS memories that remains near and dear to my heart is sharing music with my friends—learning about the bands and musicians everybody grew up with and loved." Christina believes that music, as a global language, can connect us. "Music can bring together people who span so many different political, generational, and cultural divides. Think

CHRISTINA SCANNAPIEGO '95

of all the international musicians who tour around the globe—they have disparate fan bases from different cultures, but all are moved by the experience of that one creative expression."

THE FUTURE OF CREATIVE EXPRESSION

Christina embodies the modern creative professional, as both an accomplished visual artist and the Director of Content Marketing at Copper CRM. She applies her creative skills across disciplines, combining data-driven insights with creative storytelling and proving that analytical and artistic thinking can powerfully complement each other. When considering the future of creative education, Scannapiego advocates for a balanced approach that honors traditional foundations while embracing emerging technologies. Her success demonstrates how maintaining creative fundamentals while adapting to new technologies and market demands can lead to a sustainable and fulfilling career in the arts. "The possibilities are limitless when you're an imaginative person and a natural storyteller," Christina reflects. Whether working on personal illustrations or

developing marketing strategies, her work consistently shows how traditional artistic skills can evolve and thrive in the digital age.

Through her example, Christina shows that success in creative fields isn't just about mastering specific skills or technologies—it's about maintaining a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation. As both technology and creative industries continue to evolve, her approach offers valuable lessons for the next generation of artists and creative professionals.

FOUR Mongolian Artists to check out with MOONNY TSAGAAN '16

We recently caught up with Nomundari (Moonny) Tsagaan ‘16 in London to talk about her non-profit in her home country of Mongolia which supports artists and sponsors competitions to bring awareness to young visual artists in the region and beyond.

Moonny recommended a few Mongolian artists to check out:

Sukhburen Narankhuu

Sukhburen is a sculptor who is renowned locally and internationally for his ceramic pieces.

FIND SUKHBUREN ON INSTAGRAM AT @SUKHBUREN

Jantsankhorol Erdenebayar

Jantsankhorol is a multidisciplinary artist who participated in the Venice Art Biennale in 2019.

FIND JANTSANKHOROL ON INSTAGRAM AT @JANTSA_

Munkhtsetseg Jalkhaajav

Munkhtsetseg specializes in interdisciplinary arts by integrating paintings, sculptures, performances, and media art and is one of the leading contemporary artists in Mongolia.

FIND MUNKHTSETSEG ON INSTAGRAM AT @MUNKHTSETSEG_JALKHAAJAV

Uuriintuya Dagvasambuu

Uuriintuya is a contemporary master of Mongol Zurag painting—she incorporates traditional patterns and Buddhist motifs into her paintings and draws on experiences of Mongolian women.

FIND UURIINTUYA ON INSTAGRAM AT @UUREEART

A JOURNEY OF ARTISTIC DISCOVERY: A BOTANICAL ODYSSEY

WITH MERCEDES CASTELLANO '90

In a world racing against time, Mercedes Castellano ‘90 moves to a different rhythm. As a member of the Society of Botanical Artists since 2019, she has carved out a unique space where art and nature dance in harmony. Her delicate watercolor illustrations capture not just the visual essence of flora, but the very spirit of patient observation.

"I work with no time, very slowly, respecting the paper," Mercedes explains, "observing, breathing, and enjoying the beauty I have in front of my eyes." This methodical approach isn't just about technique—it's a philosophy that emerged from an unexpected source. What began as a health setback transformed into a liberation, freeing her from a conventional career in telecommunications to pursue her true calling in botanical art.

RECOGNITION AND SCIENTIFIC PRECISION

THE FORMATIVE YEARS: LEYSIN AMERICAN SCHOOL'S INFLUENCE

The seeds of this artistic journey were planted during her time at LAS. "The year I spent at LAS was a game changer for my love of art," Mercedes reflects. "I developed a profound connection with nature that I had not previously experienced." The school's cultural trips and diverse community left an indelible mark on both her art and perspective. These experiences went beyond traditional classroom learning. The international environment of LAS exposed her

Her work has garnered recognition, earning a place in the prestigious international exhibition "Ellas Illustran Botanica" at the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid. She also collaborates with the Viera y Clavijo Botanical Garden, bringing scientific precision to her artistic practice. Beyond mere representation, Mercedes' illustrations serve as a bridge between artistic expression and botanical documentation, capturing the intricate details that scientific illustrations demand.

to diverse perspectives, teaching her to observe the world with a more nuanced and patient eye. This global outlook would later become a cornerstone of her artistic approach, allowing her to see beauty in the most minute details of botanical specimens.

THE MEDITATIVE ART OF NATURAL HISTORY PAINTING

Each illustration is a meditation in

watercolor, requiring intense focus and steady hands to capture details as minute as a grain of pollen. "Creating natural history paintings becomes a meditative experience," she notes. "This focused observation not only highlights the exquisite details of flora and fauna but also fosters a profound connection with nature." Her process is deliberately slow and intentional. Where most contemporary artists might rush to complete a piece, Mercedes takes her time, allowing each brushstroke to be a deliberate act of reverence for the natural world. This approach transforms her artwork from mere visual representation to a form of spiritual practice, a way of understanding and honoring the complexity of life.

SHARING PASSION: WORKSHOPS AND ARTISTIC COMMUNITY

For Mercedes, art transcends its role as mere creative expression—it becomes "a way to be in this world." Her work serves as a gentle reminder to slow down and notice nature's hidden treasures. Through workshops, she shares this passion with students from diverse backgrounds, creating a space where ideas flow freely and a shared love for nature and art blossoms.

A CONTINUING JOURNEY

In her studio, surrounded by the delicate dance of light and shadow on heavy paper, Mercedes continues her patient work. Each brush stroke is a testament to the power of finding one's true path—even if it means taking the scenic route to get there. Her journey reminds us that art is not just about the final product, but about the process of discovery, connection, and profound understanding.

THE ART OF MARKET-MAKING: CHAMPIONING AFRICA’S CREATIVE FUTURE

WITH ADRIANA LA LIME ‘10

ADRIANA LA LIME '10

PICTURED WITH TAGOMIZOR BY EL ANATSUI

"WE'RE SHINING A BRIGHTER LIGHT ON CREATIVITY THAT HAS ALWAYS BEEN THERE."

For Adriana La Lime ‘10, African art is more than just a professional pursuit—it's a window into history, culture, and human connection. As a specialist in the secondary art market focusing on contemporary African art, Adriana has dedicated her career to increasing visibility and understanding of African artists while helping to develop sustainable creative economies across the continent.

"We're not pushing something new," Adriana explains, "We're shining a brighter light on creativity that has always been there." This perspective comes from deep personal experience— Adriana spent much of her childhood in Africa, living in countries including Chad, Morocco, Mozambique, South Africa, and Angola between the ages of three and twenty-three.

A PATH SHAPED BY GLOBAL EXPERIENCE

Adriana's journey to becoming an expert in African art was influenced by both family ties and educational opportunities. Her mother's diplomatic career as a U.S. Foreign Service officer meant frequent moves across the African continent, providing Adriana with unique insights into various African cultures and artistic traditions.

During her graduate studies in London, a professor encouraged her to write about something close to her heart that wasn't widely covered in academic literature. Drawing on her connection to Angola, where her mother had served as U.S. Ambassador, La Lime focused her research on the art market in lusophone (Portuguese-speaking) Africa. This academic foundation, combined with her lived experience, positioned her perfectly to help develop the emerging market for contemporary African art in her work as the Deputy Director of Specialist Modern and Contemporary African Art at Sotheby's in London from 2017-2024.

FOSTERING UNDERSTANDING THROUGH ART

Adriana's work goes beyond traditional market development. She sees art as a powerful tool for cultural dialogue and historical understanding. "Through creative expression, we can track the history of these countries and see the visual storytelling of that history," she notes. This approach provides insights into both individual nations and the connections between them, offering perspectives that might be missed in conventional historical accounts.

Her expertise extends across the continent, with particular attention to emerging artistic centers like Morocco, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Senegal, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Egypt. Each country presents unique opportunities and challenges. For instance, the DRC has one of the continent's most storied art histories and a prestigious art academy but faces

challenges in developing local collecting practices. Morocco, meanwhile, benefits from established museums, galleries, and strong governmental support for the arts.

BUILDING SUSTAINABLE CREATIVE ECONOMIES

One of Adriana's primary goals is to help establish sustainable pathways for African artists. This involves working to strengthen local art markets while creating international connections. "When the creative economy is strong, there's more international interest and investment in these communities," she explains. This creates opportunities for artists and helps validate art as a viable career path for young people across the continent.

Her work involves extensive collaboration with museums, galleries, and educational institutions. She regularly conducts seminars for art students about market dynamics and career development, helping to bridge the gap between artistic creation and professional sustainability.

THE POWER OF CULTURAL EXCHANGE

Adriana credits her time at LAS with deepening her appreciation for international dialogue. "Being at LAS with such an international community gave me an appreciation for internationalism that I wouldn't have had otherwise," she reflects. This early exposure to diverse perspectives continues to influence her approach to building cross-cultural connections through art.

Looking ahead, Adriana envisions a future where African art markets are increasingly led from within the continent itself. She advocates for more museums, art schools, and educational programs that can provide greater access and opportunities for artists. Her work also focuses on expanding representation, particularly for female artists and those from underrepresented regions.

A LEGACY OF CONNECTION

Through her work, Adriana demonstrates how art can serve as a bridge between cultures, helping to tell stories that might otherwise go untold. By developing sustainable art markets across Africa, she's not just supporting individual artists— she's helping to preserve and promote cultural heritage while building pathways for future generations of creative voices. "When we can bring visibility to creativity that has always existed," Adriana concludes, "we create opportunities for dialogue, understanding, and growth that benefit everyone." In doing so, she continues to play a vital role in connecting African artists with global audiences while helping to strengthen the creative economies of their home countries.

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"WHEN WE CAN BRING VISIBILITY TO CREATIVITY THAT HAS ALWAYS EXISTED, WE CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR DIALOGUE, UNDERSTANDING, AND GROWTH THAT BENEFIT EVERYONE."

ADRIANA’S PICKS: FIVE TRAILBLAZING AFRICAN ARTISTS

Adriana has recommended five artists from across the continent of Africa whose work she admires. Read more about why Adriana finds them compelling—we hope you will check them out!

EDDY KAMUANGA ILUNGA

Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga’s art offers a compelling fusion of traditional Congolese visual language with contemporary influences. Hailing from Kinshasa, Africa’s third-largest urban area, Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga’s wider practice draws influence from an increasingly industrial and rapidly evolving technological world where historic ways of life and rituals of the Congolese people are under threat, resulting in a strain on communities resisting globalization in favor of maintaining cultural praxis associated with a bygone pre-colonial age. Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga's works can be found in the institutional collections of the Zeitz MOCAA (Cape Town, South Africa); the Hood Museum of Art (Hanover, USA); Pizzuti Collection of the Columbus Museum of Art (USA); and the Norval Foundation (Cape Town, South Africa), amongst others.

ELIAS SIME

Ethiopian artist Elias Sime is known for creating intricate, large-scale works using recycled e-waste such as keyboards, electrical wiring, and motherboards, sourced from the Minalesh Tera Market in Addis Ababa. In this bustling marketplace, Sime sifts through discarded materials from across the globe, reflecting on their journey to the Ethiopian capital from wherever they were made. For the artist, even the smallest, most seemingly irrelevant material can tell a larger story—one of global interdependence and societal connectivity. Elias Sime's work has garnered significant recognition, with pieces featured in prestigious institutions such as The Met (New York); The Hood Museum (Dartmouth); The Kemper Museum of Contemporary

Art (Kansas City); The Pizzuti Collection of Columbus Museum of Art (Columbus); The Royal Ontario Museum (Toronto); and The Norval Foundation (Cape Town). Sime is also the co-founder of Zoma Museum in Addis Ababa, an environmentally minded art center that opened in 2019.

SEE MORE OF ELIAS SIME'S WORK AT SIMEVENICE.ORG >

NENGI OMUKU

Nengi Omuku’s art is a dynamic exploration of identity, the body, and cultural history, blending surreal imagery with bold, evocative colors that capture the complexities of African femininity. Fabric is central to her production, creating ethereal flowing wall hangings. Recently exhibited at London's largest contemporary art fair, Frieze London (Kasmin Gallery and Pippy Houldsworth Gallery), Nengi Omuku's work is quickly becoming a 'must have' for any collector in this field.

FIND NENGI OMUKU ON INSTAGRAM AT @NENGIOMUKU

ZOHRA OPOKU

Zohra Opoku’s work pushes the boundaries of photography, textile, and performance to examine themes of identity, the body, and the complexities of belonging, particularly within the African diaspora. Based between Ghana and Germany, her work was recently exhibited by Marian Ibrahim at Art Basel Paris 2024, Paris's most exciting contemporary art fair.

FIND ZOHRA OPOKU ON INSTAGRAM AT @ZOHRAOPOKU

AMINA AGUEZNAY

By blending traditional Moroccan craft techniques with contemporary artistic expression, Amina Agueznay creates intricate, thought-provoking pieces that explore themes of identity and Moroccan cultural heritage. Her innovative use of materials and commitment to preserving and evolving ancient art forms make her a pioneering figure in North African art, positioning her as an essential artist for collectors to follow. She is represented by Loft Gallery and recently had an impressive exhibition open in their Marrakech space.

FIND AMINA AGUEZNAY ON INSTAGRAM AT @AMINAAGUEZNAY

ADRIANA LA LIME '10 PICTURED WITH COFFEE THE ETHIOPIAN CEREMONY BY WOSENE WORKE KOSROF

OUR 48 HOURS SERIES: SHOWCASING THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN PLACES AROUND THE WORLD, AS TOLD BY OUR LAS GLOBAL FAMILY.

SHANGHAI ABU DHABI

SHANGHAI

48 HOURS in Shanghai

THE BOSSHART FAMILY P'26

OUR FAMILY LOVES EXPLORING SHANGHAI . HAVING LIVED HERE FOR OVER 20 YEARS , WE ARE THRILLED TO SHARE OUR RECOMMENDATIONS WITH THE LAS GLOBAL FAMILY.

Even if you only have one day, don’t miss these top cultural and historical sites in Shanghai:

The Bund: One of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks and known as the "Wall Street of the Far East," The Bund is a window into Shanghai’s historical transformations. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Huangpu River and the modern skyscrapers in Lujiazui across the water. The night view is especially impressive when the neon lights illuminate the skyline.

Yuyuan Garden: This classical garden, built during the Ming Dynasty, is renowned for its tranquility and beauty—its name means "Garden of Happiness." Inside, you'll find picturesque spots like the Nine-Bend Bridge, the Mid-Lake Pavilion, and the Exquisite Jade Rock, perfect for photos. Outside the garden, the bustling Chenghuang Temple Snack Street offers local Shanghai delicacies like soup dumplings and pan-fried buns, providing a taste of authentic Shanghai flavors.

Suzhou Creek: Known as one of Shanghai’s "mother rivers," Suzhou Creek witnessed the city’s transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis. Along the river, you can see many historical buildings, each preserving the city’s industrial legacy. Today, this area blends industrial

charm with modern art elements—the art district along Suzhou Creek has become a hub for creative industries and home to contemporary art and design studios, gallery exhibitions, and art events.

GET CULTURALLY CURIOUS

If you're interested in exploring the history and culture of China and Shanghai,

the Shanghai Museum (one of China’s most important cultural institutions) is a great place to start. Its architectural design—seen from a distance, the top is circular while the base is square– was inspired by the shape of an ancient Chinese bronze vessel called a ding, and reflects the traditional Chinese

philosophical concept of "round heaven and square earth." There are 13 permanent exhibition halls (each transporting you to different periods of ancient Chinese history) housing a vast collection of ancient Chinese artifacts from the Neolithic period to the modern era. You can also view original works by renowned Chinese calligraphers and painters.

Every year during the Spring Festival, a grand light show is held at The Bund, one of Shanghai’s most dazzling events and an ideal opportunity to experience the city’s unique cultural atmosphere. Artists incorporate elements of traditional Chinese culture into dreamlike light installations on Shanghai’s iconic buildings, creating stunning visual art pieces. Accompanied by music and sound effects, the light show narrates stories of Shanghai’s historical evolution and modern development, making it a feast for both the eyes and ears! During the festival, there are also dragon and lion dances and traditional opera performances, creating a joyous festive atmosphere alongside the charm of Chinese heritage.

The Shanghai Exhibition Center hosts an Art Fair in mid-November each year, gathering top galleries and artists from around the globe. It showcases a wide range of contemporary artworks and

features special programs like art forums and artist talks. The fair presents exhibits from diverse fields such as art, design, fashion, and architecture, allowing visitors to explore the stories behind each piece. You might even encounter art superstars and have the chance to engage in face-to-face discussions with them!

DISCOVER A HIDDEN GEM

One of my top “hidden gem” recommendations is the Shanghai Film Museum

The museum has a modern exterior, yet its interior retains parts of the original Shanghai Film Studio (which shared its location), giving the sense of having stepped back in time. Inside, a corridor showcases the evolution of Chinese cinema—from silent to sound films and from black-and-white to color—with numerous precious posters, scripts, props, and costumes on display. The Hall of Fame features stories of famous screenwriters and directors in Chinese film history. The Film Art Experience and Exhibition Area provides interactive activities such as simulating film shooting and post-production. Here, visitors can personally experience the joy of filmmaking!

FIND A SHOPPER’S PARADISE

Nanjing Pedestrian Street (known as the "First Commercial Street of China") is one of the city’s bustling commercial areas and a must-visit for tourists wanting to experience Shanghai’s shopping culture! Stretching from The Bund in the east to Jing'an Temple in the west, the street is lined with numerous shops offering an incredible variety of goods, from fashion and electronics to jewelry. There are unique handmade items and traditional products on display, such as paper cuttings, Chinese knots, clay figurines, and jade pendants—items that not only carry traditional Chinese charm but also make excellent souvenirs!

SLOW DOWN THE PACE

As the largest city park within Shanghai’s urban area, Century Park is an oasis in the heart of the city! Inside, you are surrounded by lush greenery, spacious lawns, serene lakes, and a variety of

plants and flowers. Springtime is particularly beautiful, with cherry blossoms and tulips in full bloom. Bring a book, find a shady bench, and enjoy some leisure time amidst nature.

Across from The Bund, head to Riverside Avenue in Lujiazui for a bike ride or a stroll on this scenic pathway along the Huangpu River. Walking along the avenue, you can admire Shanghai’s impressive modern skyline and the river views, feeling the vibrant energy of the city. The wide-open views also make this a perfect spot to watch the sunrise or set over the skyline. For an unparalleled view of the sunset, consider going up the Oriental Pearl

yet the interiors have been transformed into modern bars, cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. As evening falls, Xintiandi lights up, offering a variety of dining options to delight your taste buds, along with numerous bars and clubs where you can unwind and enjoy the evening. Xintiandi also frequently hosts cultural events such as music festivals and fashion shows, making it a fantastic destination for a night out.

MOVE AROUND THE CITY WITH EASE

Shanghai’s transportation system is extensive and well-connected, with over 16 metro lines covering the main urban areas and surrounding districts linking

Tower! Standing at 468 meters, the tower’s design, inspired by the “string of pearls” mentioned in Bai Juyi’s poem The Song of Everlasting Sorrow, consists of 11 interconnected spheres. From the observation deck with its transparent glass floor, you’ll have a panoramic view of the city as the sun sets, casting a golden-orange glow over the entire sky and giving you the sensation of the world at your feet.

SPICE IT UP WITH SOME NIGHTLIFE

Xintiandi (one of the most famous nightlife areas in the city) combines history, scenery, and a lively atmosphere. The district retains traditional Shikumen (stone-gated) architecture,

major commercial centers, residential areas, and tourist spots. You can easily purchase a transportation card or use your phone to scan and enter, making it a quick and convenient option.

If you’re not in a hurry, take the bus—it's a great choice and is a popular way for locals to get between the bustling downtown and the quiet suburbs. Shanghai even offers double-decker sightseeing buses and nighttime scenic routes that pass by famous landmarks and attractions, allowing you to enjoy the city’s sights at a leisurely pace.

However, whichever mode of transportation you choose, it’s best to avoid the morning and evening rush hours, or you might

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find yourself “packed in like sardines!” FOLLOW YOUR NOSE TO THE BEST RESTAURANTS

Shanghai offers an incredible variety of street food and local delicacies, catering to anyone looking to sample traditional snacks or try unique food combinations. Besides the popular Chenghuang Temple Snack Street, another fantastic destination is Qibao Old Street. Located in Minhang District, Qibao Old Street is a well-preserved ancient street filled with traditional architecture and a wide range of local delicacies. A must-try is the sweet

rice wine dumplings, a local specialty made from glutinous rice balls in a sweet rice wine soup. The dessert is mildly sweet, with a fragrant aroma, and is one of the signature treats of Qibao Old Street. If you’re a fan of traditional Shanghai snacks, I highly recommend Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant in Yuyuan Garden. Famous for its Shanghainese snacks, this restaurant's signature dish is the xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). For crab dishes, Crab House (蟹家大院) is an excellent choice. This restaurant offers a wide selection of delicacies, from steamed hairy crabs to crab roe soup dumplings. I especially recommend their

crab roe tofu, where the fresh, savory meat perfectly complements the tender tofu.

For a fusion of Chinese and Western flavors, try Old Wharf Restaurant along the Huangpu River. Their thoughtfully curated menu blends the essence of traditional Shanghainese cuisine with global influences, with dishes like black truffle fried rice, seared foie gras, and signature crab roe tofu.

For Michelin-starred dining, here are some top picks in Shanghai:

Jean Georges: One of the top choices for French cuisine in Shanghai, located on The Bund. It’s famous for its classic foie gras and offers a beautiful view of the Bund’s skyline.

Xin Rong Ji: A must-visit three-Michelin-star restaurant for authentic Chinese cuisine. With several branches in Shanghai, the one on Nanjing West Road comes highly recommended. Mr & Mrs Bund by Paul Pairet: Another Bund favorite for Western cuisine, this restaurant offers a stunning view and an unmissable charcoal-grilled beef rib.

For traditional local cuisine, Lao Zheng Xing Restaurant is a personal favorite. This historic restaurant dates back to the late Qing Dynasty and showcases the evolution of Shanghai’s culinary culture—it’s a beloved gathering spot for locals and an excellent choice for tourists to experience authentic flavors. The menu includes specialties like braised pork, eight-treasure duck, crab roe tofu, and seasonal greens with gluten.

EAT LIKE A

LOCAL

When it comes to Shanghai’s signature dishes, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) is at the top of the list. Imagine a thin, delicate skin wrapping savory meat filling and rich broth; one bite releases a burst of flavorful soup, filling you with instant happiness. Before eating xiaolongbao, be sure to take a small bite to sip out the broth before enjoying the whole dumpling! Another favorite is hongshao rou (braised

pork). Although this dish varies across China, Shanghai’s version stands out for its glossy red color, tender texture, and balance of sweetness without being overly rich. It’s a regular on the tables of Shanghai families.

Crab roe tofu is another must-try in Shanghai cuisine. This dish combines silky tofu with the rich flavor of crab roe, resulting in a dish that is both delicious and nutritious, enjoyed by people of all ages. The tofu is soft and smooth, while the crab adds an intense, aromatic richness.

EMBRACE A GLOBAL MINDSET

The harmonious fusion of history and modernity, East and West is one of the traits I love most about this cosmopolitan city. As a former international settlement, Shanghai became a frontier for cultural exchange as early as the late 19th century. Feel the French ambiance of the French Concession, admire the European-style architecture along The Bund, and experience the classical Chinese garden aesthetics in Yuyuan Garden

Wander the international neighborhoods for a unique opportunity to see diverse cultures up close, with international supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes. Attend an international cultural event or art exhibitions, such as the Shanghai International Film Festival, where artists and cultural enthusiasts from all over the world connect and engage. Explore Shanghai’s dining scene, sampling cuisine from various countries: enjoy French cuisine in the French Concession or indulge in authentic Italian pizza in Xintiandi!

GET OUT OF THE CITY

For a day trip or short getaway, I recommend visiting Suzhou Gardens, located about 100 kilometers (1.5 hours) from Shanghai. Known as "Heaven on Earth," Suzhou is famous for its exquisite classical gardens, such as the Humble Administrator's Garden (Zhuozheng Yuan) with a beautifully designed layout of ponds, pavilions, and rock formations

that blend seamlessly with nature. If you visit in the spring, you can enjoy the breathtaking sight of blooming peonies and azaleas within the gardens.

Oriental Land (Dongfang Lüzhou) in Shanghai’s Qingpu District (40 kilometers and accessible by metro) is a mustvisit for outdoor activities. As one of Shanghai's largest leisure and vacation areas, Oriental Land offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including zip-lining, rock climbing, and archery. The park is shaded by lush trees and surrounded by lakes, creating a beautiful environment where you can take peaceful walks or bike rides, fully enjoying the tranquility and beauty of nature.

STREET FOOD SHANGHAI, CHINA

PIANIST IN SHANGHAI GARDEN SANCTUARY SHANGHAI, CHINA

48 HOURS in Abu Dhabi

WHEN TALKING ABOUT THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES , IT IS OFTEN DUBAI THAT STEALS THE SPOTLIGHT, BUT THE CAPITAL CITY OF ABU DHABI IS A TREASURE WAITING TO BE DISCOVERED.

SOFIIA TUHOLUKOVA ‘21

Igraduated from LAS in 2021 and now as a third year law student at NYU Abu Dhabi, I find time to sing with my band and explore all the city has to offer. While we all love Switzerland, I will argue that a visit to Abu Dhabi might be a pleasant surprise. Let's explore Abu Dhabi, a captivating destination that promises to resonate with every traveler.

CULTURE

Saadiyat Island is the perfect place to discover Arabic culture, traditions, religion, and history. Stay at the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Hotel, with its infinite beaches, fine dining, and golf course, and find yourself in a peaceful neighborhood just steps from the cultural district. You might even spot an Arabian sand gazelle! Within walking distance is an exhibition center that hosts cultural events, music shows, workshops, and exhibitions. In December (the best time to visit the UAE), Manarat presents the Arabian Days Festival, where you can explore Arabic culture through art installations, film screenings, and performances.

Next to Manarat is the Berklee Abu Dhabi campus, which offers a range of workshops, concerts, and open mics—anyone can join in the fun! I find music to be a great way to discover a new culture, share traditions, and

make friends—I even met my now bandmates at an open mic event!

My own campus, NYU Abu Dhabi, is open to the public and hosts dance, music, and theater performances. Each year, the Arts Center hosts Hekayah, an event which showcases music and art from the region.

A do-not-miss experience is the Louvre Abu Dhabi with its beautiful waterfront setting and stunning architecture (including a latticework dome inspired by traditional Islamic design).

In a departure from traditional museums, the Louvre Abu Dhabi does not focus on a single culture or region but instead takes a universal approach to art, with a collection spanning thousands of years that showcases human creativity from cultures across the globe. The thoughtfully curated galleries are organized around concepts like humanity, power, and spirituality, and interactive workshops, guided tours, and programming for families encourage an immersive cultural experience.

Also on Saadiyat Island, you will find Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center (an iconic cultural landmark), and the Abrahamic Family House. With a mosque, church, and synagogue, the Abrahamic Family House welcomes people from all walks of life to exchange knowledge and practice faith—a representation of the UAE’s dedication to tolerance, open-mindedness, and understanding. >

"A DRIVE INTO THE CITY WILL BRING YOU TO THE CONRAD ABU DHABI ETIHAD TOWERS.

ASCEND TO THE 74TH FLOOR OBSERVATION

DECK FOR A 360 VIEW OF THE SKYLINE FROM THE HIGHEST VANTAGE POINT

IN THE CITY."

ABU DHABI ETIHAD TOWERS

FOOD

On Saadiyat Island, the seafront street Mamsha Al Saadiyat is full of restaurants offering delicious cuisines from Lebanese to American to Arabic. My favorite is Niri, a Japanese restaurant-bar for seafood lovers and exquisite cocktails. At Ting Irie you can enjoy live music and open mic performances to accompany your Jamaican meal.

A drive into the city will bring you to the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Ascend to the 74th floor observation deck for a 360 view of the skyline from the highest vantage point in the city. Enjoy delicious coffee or light refreshments while you take in the view.

A few other spots to catch a bird’s-eye-view of Abu Dhabi are Azura Panoramic Lounge (a modern restaurant) and Stratos Revolving Lounge & Bar, located on the 25th floor of the Le Royal Méridien hotel on Khalifa Street and providing a unique dining experience with a rotating platform that allows guests to enjoy ever-changing vistas.

For an upscale dining experience, I have a few recommendations: Zuma Abu Dhabi (Japanese); Nusr-et Steakhouse; Byblos Sur Mer (Lebanese); La Petite Maison–LPM (French & Mediterranean); Penelope’s (French Riviera jazz club); and Cipriani (Italian).

But if you want to enjoy traditional local food, pop over to Beirut at Mamsha Al Saadiyat—it has a beautiful ambiance and authentic cuisine.

ACTIVITIES

Although Abu Dhabi is technically a desert, you can escape to the Sir Bani Yas Island Nature Reserve for an incredible wildlife adventure amidst lush greenery. For a breath of fresh air, head to Walking Park, where you can stroll through the vibrant mangroves and rejuvenate your lungs with the enriching oxygen that surrounds you.

For adventure seekers and sport enthusiasts, visit Ferrari World and its adventure park or enjoy a visit to Yas Marina Circuit—you might even catch the annual Abu Dhabi Formula 1 race! Etihad Arena on Yas Island features not only grandiose concerts and ceremonies, but also UFC Fights and NBA League basketball games—a must visit!

To enrich your understanding of the history and development of the UAE, visit Qasr Al Watar Palace and Emirates Palace. Conclude your trip by relaxing at The Bridge Wellness Hub, with its gym, spa, restaurant, juice bar, nutrition corner, concept store, outdoor activities, arts and culture spaces, as well as social and learning programmes.

And finally, do not forget to visit Boomah, the Owl Café where you can have a cup of coffee while you visit with a dozen owls. As a souvenir, take home some famous Dubai chocolate (filled with kadayif and pistachio).

Maa Al Salama! ("Peace be with you/goodbye" in Arabic)

INTERIOR OF EMIRATES PALACE , ABU DHABI UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

THE LOUVRE

ABU DHABI

Visiting the Louvre Abu Dhabi is like stepping into a beautifully woven tapestry of human history. What makes the museum remarkable is its commitment to showcasing art and artifacts from across the globe side by side, organized not by origin but by era. This approach highlights shared human experiences across cultures, inviting visitors to see connections rather than differences. It’s a philosophy that resonates deeply with the spirit of LAS—a place where students and staff from all backgrounds live and learn together on the Magic Mountain, forming a community grounded in mutual respect, curiosity, and global understanding.

LOUVRE ABU DHABI

SAADIYAT

UNITED

THE LOUVRE

PARTNERING WITH SCAD

VISUAL ARTS AT LAS UNSPOKEN CURRENTS

VISITING SCHOLARS

PHOTO

PARTNERING

with SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN

In October 2024, LAS Design students were invited by SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) to visit their exhibition as the official university partner of the Design Miami Paris showcase at the Hôtel de Maisons during Paris Art Week. During the show, SCAD debuted commissions by celebrated alumni, including Trish Andersen and Lærke Lillelund, whose textile installations were on display. LAS students had the chance to meet Danish fiber artist Lærke and hear more about the inspiration for

her structural organza featured in the central staircase of the space.

Lærke explained, “I fell in love with all the ornamentation and excessive Rococo detail in this house, which directly inspired this installation.” Her process utilized both traditional and digital methods, combining soft and geometric shapes to form the showstopping piece. “I’m very much 'more is more'," she added, an ideology that matched the aura of the gilded mansion where the installation was displayed.

SCAD cultivates partnerships throughout the art world. In addition to being a longtime university partner for Design Miami, the school maintains an international campus in Lacoste in the south of France where both current students and SCAD alumni can hone their creativity while nestled in the idyllic medieval town.

It was on the Lacoste campus last summer that LAS Design and Entrepreneurship teacher Can Gidding ‘95 forged the partnership with SCAD which led to the

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SCAD EXHIBIT AT DESIGN MIAMI PARIS

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCAD

invitation to Paris in the fall. With plans for further collaborations between LAS and SCAD in the years to come, opportunities like these give our students incredible real-world experiences at the very pinnacle of the design and art field. We spoke with Ben Tollefson, curator at the SCAD Museum of Art and the alumni commissions for the SCAD Design Miami Paris exhibition, about the significance of young artists presenting their work at such a prestigious event. Why is it important for up and coming artists like Laerke Lillelund and Trish Andersen to exhibit at a show such as Design Miami Paris?

SCAD being the official university partner of Design Miami Paris provided an incredible opportunity to showcase some of the university’s talented alumni work to a large, global audience of collectors, design specialists, and artists, within the context of some of the greatest working designers in the world. The fair is such an important platform for emerging and established artists to be seen and considered by the global design community. How are artists and commissions chosen for these events?

These artists and commissions are chosen for these events through the leadership of SCAD’s president and founder Paula Wallace. Working closely with the exhibitions department at SCAD, President Wallace selects the alumni artists and sets the aesthetic direction of the presentation. This year at the fair in Paris, SCAD focused on alumni artists with a

bold sense of color and an exploration of tactile possibilities through material. What did you (and the artists!) enjoy most about Art Week in Paris this year? Art fair weeks in various cities always provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with gallerists and creative professionals from around the world. I especially love Art Week in Paris because it is amazing to see the fairs in such important historic contexts like the grand Neoclassical architecture of the Hôtel de Maisons for Design Miami Paris, or the incredible Grand Palais for Art Basel. In addition to cutting-edge contemporary art and design at the fairs, you also have the opportunity to see some of the greatest works of art in some of the grandest institutions in the world!

How do you see the creative arts bridging across cultural divides?

The SCAD Museum of Art showcases artists from around the globe, and in my role as curator at the museum, I have worked with artists from places like Kuwait, Germany, Iran, the Netherlands, Japan, South Africa, and more. I’ve seen firsthand how art bridges cultures for the many international students at SCAD and visitors from the general public that experience shows by these international creatives. I think that rather than providing answers, art opens viewers up to an exchange of ideas and questions, and offers the opportunity to experience cultures, ways of being, and new modes of understanding.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SCAD

LÆRKE LILLELUND

PORTRAITS CREATIVE E

IN XCELLENCE

VISUAL ARTS AT LAS WITH LAS STAFF

ANITA DORE CAN GIDDING ‘95

SKYE FIEDLER ‘96

JEN BEIGHTON & JOSÉ MIGUEL ORTEGA

Against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps, Leysin American School harbors an extraordinary collection of artistic talent. Each member of this creative community brings unique perspectives and practices that enrich the school's cultural tapestry. We are lucky enough to have celebrated artists on staff, their stories painting a picture of artistic excellence that spans disciplines, cultures, and traditions. Meet just a few of our extraordinary visual artists on campus. >

ANITA DORE

Marketing and Communications

Associate: Visual Storyteller

Anita Dore brings an artist's eye to every project she tackles in her work at LAS. Raised in upstate New York by parents who encouraged careful observation of the natural world, she developed a multifaceted approach to creativity that spans painting, ceramics, photography, and design.

Her work finds beauty in both grand vistas and minute details. "I'm inspired by how steam swirls up from a cup of coffee or the iridescent sheen of soap bubbles," she shares. This attention to detail infuses her visual storytelling, whether she's creating school materials or working on personal artistic projects.

With refreshing honesty, Anita acknowledges the challenges inherent in creative work. "Sometimes a painting comes together quickly and easily, but sometimes it's a struggle," she admits. This vulnerability in discussing the creative process helps demystify art for students and colleagues alike.

CAN GIDDING ‘95

Entrepreneurship and Design Teacher: Design Without Limits

From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the serene peaks of Leysin, Can Gidding's journey embodies the international spirit of LAS. A former LAS student himself, his path through Yale and Harvard's architecture programs eventually led him back to the place where his creative journey began.

For his paintings, Can approaches each piece with methodical precision. "I mix each color fresh anytime I paint," he reveals. This attention to detail carries through to his teaching, where he encourages students to see design and entrepreneurship as two faces of the same creative coin. His work spans an impressive range – from photorealistic paintings to eco-friendly landscaping, from television appearances to classroom innovation. Recently completing a second Masters in Educational Technology, Can continues to push the boundaries of what design education can achieve.

The Alpine setting provides constant inspiration. "Taking photos here has become an exercise in imagining how each scene and atmosphere might be represented as a painting," he notes. His classroom becomes a laboratory where this inspiration transforms into practical skills, preparing students for careers that might not yet exist.

SKYE FIEDLER ‘96

Visual Arts Teacher: Coming Full Circle

When eight-year-old Skye first declared her intention to become an art teacher, few could have predicted the global journey that would eventually lead her back to LAS. As a student here in the 1990s, she developed her artistic foundation under the guidance of Ms. Lunn. Over the past 47 years, Skye has traveled extensively across Central and Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, the Middle East, North America, and South America. These diverse experiences have broadened her global perspective and significantly enriched her approach to art education.

Dresden International School principal Joyce Larson says, “I do not say this casually—Ms. Fiedler is a premiere art teacher and the best I’ve known in my 20 years in education. She inspires children to fall in love with expressing themselves in visual arts, and she teaches them techniques and skills to be successful. Ms. Fiedler appreciates the artist in all of us, and no child leaves her class at the end of the school year believing they can’t do art. Children are proud of their art, and Ms. Fiedler is adamant about displaying it just as proudly around the building.”

Now, after teaching across three continents, she's returned to Leysin to inspire a new generation of artists. Her impact on campus is immediately visible. Student artwork transforms the Savoy building into a dynamic gallery space, with installations ranging from the cafeteria to the local doctor's office. "Each piece tells a story," she explains, "not just of individual creativity, but of our collective journey as a global community."

The challenges of managing such a large program at LAS while maintaining her own artistic practice have taught Skye valuable lessons about adaptation. Her personal work, which she describes as "box-sized" due to the practical constraints of international living, draws inspiration from her extensive travels and underwater adventures. Recent pieces explore nostalgic memories of Leysin, filtered through the lens of her global experiences. Because of her influence, the art department has expanded beyond traditional boundaries. The founding of the Leysin Artists local art exhibition exemplifies her commitment to building bridges between the school and local community. Her innovative approach has garnered international recognition, including a visit from Her Highness Sheikha Moza to her classroom in Qatar.

JEN BEIGHTON

Visual Arts Teacher: Breaking New Ground

"I don't really consider myself an artist," Jen Beighton says with characteristic modesty, yet her influence on the LAS creative landscape is undeniable. Teaching in what she describes as "the best and most inspiring art room" of her 25-year career, she brings a designer's precision to artistic expression.

Her journey from 3D design to art education reflects a broader understanding of creativity's role in learning. During her maternity leave in 2009, she established "Looseleaf Design," creating print publications and websites. This experience informs her teaching, where she encourages students to see art as a process rather than just a product.

Innovation marks every aspect of her practice. Her master's research project explored the intersection of traditional and digital learning in art education, developing both a physical book and companion app. Currently, she's challenging herself to develop new skills in painting, committing to participate in the 2025 Leysin Artists exhibition.

Her connection to the local community manifests in practical ways – from lino print cards featuring local peaks to silver jewelry sold at the Leysin Christmas market. Each piece represents a bridge between the international school community and its Alpine home.

JOSÉ MIGUEL ORTEGA

Kitchen Staff: Portrait Artist

Between preparing meals and managing supplies for the LAS kitchen, José Miguel Ortega creates art that crosses cultural boundaries. Born in Seville, Spain, and trained as a physical education teacher, his artistic journey began with comic books and led to a deep appreciation for masters like Velázquez and Rembrandt. Later, he began to appreciate other great masters, such as Sorolla, Zurbarán, Caravaggio, Leonardo, and Michelangelo, as well as Dalí and Magritte, feeling especially attracted by the effects of chiaroscuro.

His creative process is a study in mindfulness. "I create an atmosphere conducive to the moment," he explains, describing his ritual of coffee, music, and focused concentration. This dedication shows in his meticulous pen drawings, where delicate strokes are built to create powerful portraits that have found homes across Europe.

“When I look for a model to draw, for me the most important thing is to transmit emotions or sensations to the viewer. In that aspect and independently of other people's orders, the choice of the model to draw is important, since it must always capture some story behind it.

Once the model has been chosen, I make the first pencil strokes on the paper or cardboard, depending on the technique I am going to use. For mixed media I use a paper that supports both dry and wet techniques. In this case I generally use markers, colored pencils, pastels and even acrylics."

Since arriving in Leysin in 2017, José Miguel has expanded his technical repertoire while deepening his connection to the school community. His portraits, commissioned by staff and families, create lasting bonds that transcend language and culture. "Art speaks when words cannot," he reflects, "telling stories that belong to all of us."

IDr. Ajey Balaji Vemulapadu, LAS Modern Language and Theory of Knowledge Teacher

UNSPOKEN CURRENTS:

NAVIGATING SELF-DISCOVERY THROUGH LANGUAGE AND CURIOSITY

hail from Coimbatore, a city nestled in Tamil Nadu, India, a veritable crucible of cultures situated at the confluence of three states. Growing up in this vibrant milieu, I was immersed in the arts, traditions, and languages from a young age. My father imbued in me a deep affection for Indian classical music, and my mother’s inimitable methods fostered a sense of independence that led me to explore the art of cooking. I was fluent in three languages by the age of eight and at fifteen I could converse with ease in six, each language giving me a new system of thinking.

Today, I dream, cogitate, and reason across seven languages, shifting seamlessly to match the nuance or depth my reflections require. I even carry my Indian English accent with pride—a part of my identity that, I recently learned, my TOK students appreciate for its authenticity, reflecting their open-mindedness. I believe there exists an unnameable language—an essence that transcends direct translation, reflecting a subtle, subtextual weave—born out of the multiple languages we speak. It is this deliberately mute linguagenic undercurrent that fuels my curiosity, inspiring me to probe the ideas and insights beneath words.

Curiosity and continued learning serve as pillars in my professional and personal journey. Teaching French—a language outside my cultural roots—and Theory of Knowledge sharpens my ability to navigate complex perspectives, encouraging me to find meaning where others might simply see structure. In a world of outward validation, I’ve embraced learning as an inward journey, remaining grounded and quietly purposeful.

I aspire to serve my students as a trustworthy, avuncular, and authentic model, teaching them that not every question has an answer—and some are best left unanswered by others, for they are the foundation of self-discovery. My methods may be deliberately subtle, even prompting students to wonder if I’m truly teaching them. Yet, in this process, I may have successfully planted or nurtured the seed of critical thinking. I’ve learned that intellectual stagnation leads to a fixed mindset—a trap I strive to avoid.

My mantra for self-growth lies in the simple interrogation: “What next?” This question recently guided me to find a place in a program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where I continue expanding my journey of self-discovery alongside my work at LAS.

LAS is proud to collaborate with BABSON COLLEGE, the top-ranked college for ENTREPRENEURSHIP in the US, to offer an unparalleled entrepreneurship program.

SKILL DEVELOPMENT

ENTREPRENEURSHIP, ENVIRONMENTALISM, ANALYTICAL SKILLS, SELF-AWARENESS, STARTUP CULTURE, CREATIVITY, IDEA GENERATION, TRIPLE BOTTOM LINE, FINANCIAL LITERACY, PROTOTYPING, COLLABORATION, PITCHING & PLANNING, LEADERSHIP, PROBLEM

SOLVING, POWER SKILLS, SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS, SYSTEMS THINKING, MANAGEMENT

THIS PARTNERSHIP BRINGS BABSON’S Entrepreneurial Program for Innovators and Changemakers (EPIC) curriculum to LAS, equipping students with essential skills and knowledge in marketing, finance, design, and soft skills while working on a product or service aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG).

The LAS Changemakers program also includes:

SPEAKER SERIES

CEO Skills, Running a Generational Family Business, Sustainability in Business, Becoming an Entrepreneur, and more.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP PARTNERS

Partnerships (such as those with Dark Matter Labs and La Bruguera), cultural trips with a changemaker focus, and more.

2024-2025

VISITING SCHOLARS THE LAS VISITING SCHOLAR PROGRAM

Leysin American School welcomes teachers, administrators, professors, artists, and entrepreneurs from around the world to share ideas with LAS teachers and students through the Visiting Scholar Program. Often Visiting Scholars and LAS faculty collaborate on curriculum design, blogs, academic articles, and presentations at international conferences. Our instruction at LAS is amplified by their presence and their ongoing collaborative scholarship with us.

BETH SKELTON

Consultant, Multilingual Learners (USA)

Beth worked with students in English Language Acquisition classes, teaming up with her daughter, Mari McCarville, who began teaching at LAS in fall 2024. Beth consults regularly at international schools in Europe and frequently visits LAS.

BILGE KALKAVAN, PHD

Professor (Hasan Kalyoncu University, Turkey)

As a professor of education and second language acquisition, Bilge finished a chapter about the LAS Resident Scholar program with LASER director Paul Magnuson and Berkeley professor and former visiting scholar Özge Hacifazlioglu. During her time on campus, Bilge made traditional Turkish food for a student social activity.

CHEN-SHENG YANG, PHD

Professor (National Chi-Nan University, Taiwan)

Chen-Sheng is a professor in the Department of Educational Policy and Administration at the National Chi-Nan University in Taiwan. He presented at our first visiting

scholar conference with other visiting scholars and visitors in person and online.

CHRIS MCGINNIS

Artist (USA)

Chris is a visual artist represented by Zynka Gallery in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (USA) and Founding Director of Rivers of Steel Arts. At LAS, he shared his art and creative process with students and faculty.

DAVID RAY

Artist (Australia)

Dave is a contemporary ceramic artist whose work has built a reputation as wild and flamboyant Baroque creations that incorporate an abundance of colors, textures, and decals on handcrafted vessels. While at LAS, he led art classes for middle school, Savoy, and Belle Époque students.

DIANA DIKÓW, PHD

Head of Wellbeing & School Psychologist (Akademeia High School, Poland)

Diana is a polyglot school psychologist who has spent multiple years working with immigrants and people in

war-torn regions of the world. At LAS, she met with health counselors, admissions representatives, and teachers, attended classes, and presented her research to faculty.

EILEEN BOUFFARD

Director of Teaching and Learning (The Taft School, USA)

Eileen has presented widely on topics related to adolescent use of digital devices and media consumption as literature. She recently completed her doctoral study in educational leadership at the Neag School of Education at the University of Connecticut. She worked with LAS this year on additional models of teacher professional development using acting research.

HELEN GREIG

Teaching & Learning Support (Templestowe College, Australia)

Helen is currently working as a Teaching and Learning Coach and Lead Teacher of Disability Inclusion at Templestowe College. Her focus at LAS was exploring how student agency is cultivated through teacher pedagogy. She observed classes and worked with teachers and counselors.

JIE GAO

Doctoral Candidate (EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland)

Jie co-taught LAS science classes to further develop her understanding of student attitudes toward themselves and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations.

JONATHON WYMAN

Middle School Principal (American School of Guatemala)

Jonathon observed younger LAS students and talked with teachers and administrators to share ideas about middle school curriculum, instruction, and assessment with the lens of student agency and advisory programming.

MARTA FILIP-FOUSER

Dean of Teaching and Learning (Brewster Academy, USA)

Marta’s research interests focus on classroom approaches that foster intellectual diversity and global citizenship, as well as adult learning that builds teachers’ instructional capacities. She worked with LAS faculty members on expanding the LAS Resident Scholar program.

MATT HILL, PHD & TIM SCOTT, PHD

Director of the Barker Institute (Barker College, Australia)

Research Fellow and History Teacher (Barker College, Australia)

Matt and Tim presented at the Educational Collaborative of International Schools in Stuttgart, Germany before returning to campus with Paul Magnuson and visiting scholar Pi-Chi Han to continue collaborating on articles about research centers at the secondary level.

MESUT SUZER

Retired Teacher (Qatar)

Mesut is a retired geography teacher with a deep interest in outdoor education. During his career he led

several student trips to Nepal. At LAS, he learned about the Alpine Institute and the outdoor programming available to students.

MUBERRA SEMIN

Music Teacher (ACS International Schools, Qatar)

Muberra visited music and art classes while at LAS and learned about the LAS boarding school model and summer program.

NILÜFER ÇAĞIN, ÖZGE GÜLTEKIN, NIHAN ŞEHSUVAROĞLU

Professional Learning Center Coordinator

High School Vice Principal Middle School Vice Principal (Hisar School, Turkey)

The team from Hisar School is growing their in-house professional development center through visits to three Swiss schools on the forefront of this work. While at LAS, they collaborated on planning for a future conference of the special interest group “Research Informed Schools” for the largest conference for international schools: ECIS (The Educational Collaborative for International Schools).

PATRICK ALEXANDER, PHD

Professor (Oxford Brookes University, UK)

Patrick continued his work on the integration of his research interest, intellectual wellbeing, with a study of the Resident Scholar program with LAS faculty members Paul Magnuson, Nicola Cosgrove, Aaron Deupree, and Tom Cosgrove.

PAUL CARTWRIGHT

IB Programme Coordinator (Anton Bruckner International School, Austria)

Paul is a PhD candidate working in the area of STEM education. He spent his time at LAS in the Innovation Lab with teachers Jeremy Wu and

Tom Cosgrove. He also met with IB Programme leadership for a job-share professional development format.

PI-CHI HAN, PHD

Professor (National Kaohsiung Normal University, Taiwan)

Pi-Chi presented at the Educational Collaborative of International Schools in Stuttgart, Germany, with visiting scholar Tim Scott and LASER director Paul Magnuson before returning to campus to collaborate on articles about research centers at the secondary level.

RADEK OROS

PhD Candidate (Novo University, Portugal) Radek researches the application of Stanford Life Design to populations beyond university students. At LAS, he partnered with entrepreneurship classes to work with our students on their future goals.

RUSLANA WESTERLUND, PHD

Consultant, Multilingual Learners (USA) As a sought-after consultant in reading and writing instruction for non-native speakers of English, Ruslana worked with the English Language Acquisition team and ELA classes to further awareness about teaching, learning, and assessment for those learning English as an additional language.

SAMANTHA

OLSON-WYMAN, PHD

Principal (Colegio Maya, Guatemala) Samantha’s interests include instructional coaching and multilingual learners. She worked with members of LASER, the ELA department, and other subject department heads on approaches to coaching teachers for continual improvement.

Alumni Ski Weekend SAVE THE DATE

February 6-8, 2026

In February 2025, LAS alumni from three different decades came back to Leysin for the second annual Alumni Ski Weekend. We skied, we dined, we imbibed, we connected, we laughed—what a way to rediscover the magic of the mountain! Don’t miss your chance to join in the fun in 2026—save the date (February 6-8, 2026) and keep an eye out for tickets to go on sale in the fall of 2025.

LAS CAMPUS VISITS

This year, we welcomed dozens of alumni back to the Magic Mountain! We love reconnecting with you on campus—please let us know if you are planning a visit by contacting us at advancement@las.ch. We hope to see many more of you in the months ahead!

Here are just a few photos from some of our recent visitors!

Global Family Events 2024

Where in the world will we see you in 2025?

HANK FOSHEE '62

Hank’s wife and daughter (Britta Foshee and Marielle Sadler) visited campus in July to remember Hank, who passed away June 2022.

SUSAN (RYCHLICKI)

SHAW ‘63

Susan passed away in January 2025. Her family notes that Susan had only wonderful memories of LAS and of her friends in Leysin. While attending school here, she brushed shoulders with the likes of Sylvester Stalone, Larry Ellison, and David Niven, whom she met at a ski team meet. Susan and her husband attended a reunion in Leysin about a decade ago and she also met up several times with classmates at a reunion in Las Vegas. Susan is survived by her husband (John), sons (Neil and Keith), and three grandchildren.

In MEMORIAM

CHARLIE FALLON ‘65

Ron Huxley ‘66 shared with us that Charlie sadly passed away in December 2024. Charlie was part of the Aramco family and was married to fellow LAS alum Carol Florell ‘65. He was a dear friend who will be sadly missed.

JAMES PUIG ‘66

James Puig Class of 1966 passed away in February 2024.

SUSAN LABORIE '68

We are sad to share that we received word that Susan Laborie Class of 1968 passed away.

VANESSA PUTNAM '89

We are sad to share that we received word that Vanessa Putnam Class of 1989 passed away.

BARRY KEMP '68

Gordy Shanor ‘68 shared in August 2024 that Barry Kemp had passed away in Modesto, California. From Gordy–”He was a long-time soulmate of mine and a super human being. He spent many years wheelchair-bound and in pain. I know he’s in a much better space now. He wanted no ceremony…only to raise a toast! Fly with the angels…we’ll miss you.”

LAUREN MARCHAND

LACOUR ‘01

Lauren Elizabeth Marchand LaCour died during a long illness on October 2, 2024. After completing her IB Diploma at LAS and a BA in Pre-Medicine from the University of Vermont, Lauren worked in creative positions for Burton Snowboards, Ben & Jerry’s, Armada Skis, and Dragon Alliance. In addition to loving the mountains of Switzerland and Vermont,

where she volunteered as a snowboard instructor for children at Stowe Mountain and Bolton Valley Resorts, Lauren has a passion for the sea. She spent several summers as a deckhand and assistant medical officer on tall ships with Outward Bound USA and the Sea Education Program at Woods Hole. Lauren will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

ALYSSA MEGAN LEWIS ‘04

Alyssa Megan Lewis - artist, designer, wife, sister and daughter - sadly passed away on July 15, 2024 after valiantly fighting cancer that ravaged her body for four and a half years. She was a bright creative light with exquisite taste and attention to detail that has now been extinguished. Her body of work will live on. She had a generous personality and loved to travel the world which she did right up to the end. During her time at LAS, Alyssa loved her experience so much that in her senior year she never left the mountain. She will be so deeply missed by Nik, her husband, family and friends.

MARIAM (MIMZ) CHARTRAND TRESCH '08

Mariam Chartrand Tresch passed away after a short illness, on June 16, 2024, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Mariam was a citizen of the world, having lived in Pakistan, Kenya, Canada, Egypt, Bolivia, Switzerland, Botswana, the United States, and traveling to many other countries. She was loved by many with a career in high end hotels in the Albuquerque hospitality sector, a perfect choice of profession given her dynamic and effervescent personality. Mariam was vibrant and full of life. She was a beautiful person inside and out. She loved to smile, laugh, dance, and be surrounded by her loved ones.

JIM POPE (FORMER FACULTY)

Former LAS teacher Jim Pope passed away recently. He was a great outdoorsman, teacher, friend, and Scrabble player. Though a man of few words, he will be missed.

MARK KOLMAN (FORMER FACULTY)

We are sad to announce the passing of Mark Kolman on January 26, 2024 after a fivemonth battle with cancer. Alongside his wife, Amy, Mark was a former faculty member at LAS, and his daughter, Pepper, attended as a student. Mark, a passionate educator, was Director of LAS Summer in Switzerland and the Dean of the Savoy Campus, and a huge asset to our family community here on the mountain. Amongst many other things, he was an athlete, educator, music lover, and friend to many.

ADERITO (ADÉ) FERREIRA

BY ANTONIO FERNANDO MONTEIRO DE CARVALHO

Adérito Ferreira (better known as Adé), is originally from a city called Lamego in the north of Portugal, where he was an avid supporter of his favorite football team, Sporting Clube de Portugal.

Distinguished by his unique style—mustache and cap— Adé was a professional who dedicated 22 years to our LAS community as part of the housekeeping and transport teams. Adé delivered the mail every day for so many years to each of us, and he was always available to help, support, and welcome each member of our LAS family.

After retiring in April 2024, Adé is spending this new stage of his life in Switzerland with his family. The LAS community wishes him all the best: our success is a reflection of your dedication. CONGRATULATIONS on your retirement, Adé!

ALUMNI UPDATES

JANET PANEBAKER '67

Janet’s visit to campus in April was the first time she was back in Leysin after graduating 57 years ago! She traveled to Switzerland to show her husband, Dave, the place where she spent her teenage years. They met working as park rangers in the US and connected over their love of being outdoors. While in town they enjoyed hiking to Eagle's Nest together.

CHERYL (RILEY) CAMBRE '72

Cheryl and her husband, Dan, visited campus in June when a river cruise from Amsterdam to Lucerne landed them too close not to stop by Leysin! This was Cheryl’s first time at the school since she graduated over 50 years ago. They had a wonderful tour of the school and dorm (a highlight was a hike to Eagle’s Nest!)—Cheryl was overwhelmed to see the growth of the school and could not have felt more welcomed. Cheryl is considering retirement this year after 41 years of elementary teaching and is looking forward to more time to visit their three daughters and six grandchildren.

ANDREW EVANS ‘86

“It is a place you have to see to truly appreciate. She even got to experience the death-defying drive up from Aigle in the fog/clouds! LAS looks very different than in the 80's and all for the better. LAS had a positive impact on my life and I am glad to see it thriving.”

CATHRINE (MEDIAAS)

JOHNSON '92

Cathrine returned to LAS for the first time since graduating as part of a big trip around Europe with her two daughters.

A member of the US Advisory Board and International Council, Clayton now counts “current parent” as another connection to LAS! His son, Sheldon ‘28, enrolled at LAS this year after Summer in Switzerland for two years.

JOHN HAGNER '95

new consultancy doing polling and data analysis for Democratic candidates and progressive groups in the US. He and Adam are getting married in June in Minneapolis, where they live.

CAROLINA HELLER '95

Carolina visited the LAS campus last summer in July with her family. It was great to welcome her back to the Magic Mountain.

JOHN SUTTON '95

For the second summer in a row, John Sutton dropped off his kids on campus as they attended the LAS Summer in Switzerland Program in 2024. They are already looking forward to summer #3 this year!

RAYA BURLA ‘01

Andrew returned to Leysin in September to show his wife, Emily, the place where he has so many fond memories and has shared so many stories about.

John visited campus in June with his fiancé, Adam. He got to relieve memories at the Savoy building, La Fromagerie, and even reminisced with the Fiedler family! John is founding a

Currently living in Basel, Raya is a frequent visitor to Leysin! Recently, she was in town for the Alumni Ski Weekend and was able to catch a performance of the LAS student musical, Legally Blonde She wrote: “Tonight was an incredible throwback to my high school years as I stepped into the Black Box Theatre to watch Legally Blonde, performed by the talented LAS students. Sitting alongside Doris and Steven Ott, I was instantly surrounded by the warmth of the LAS community—familiar faces, dear friends, and the deep sense of belonging that this place has given me over the years. Watching these students bring Legally Blonde to life filled me with admiration and pride. Beyond the music

CLAYTON GENTRY '93

and laughter, the story is about breaking barriers and realizing that with passion and determination, anything is possible. But more than that, it’s about love—the love for friends, family, and ourselves— that pushes us to reach our fullest potential. No matter how it changes over time, love remains the force that drives us forward, just as this community continues to inspire and uplift me.”

JAE SHRADER ‘09

EMMA MILLER ‘07

Emma Miller ‘07 and Greg Bellizzi celebrated their wedding in Maryland in November with friends and family, including several LAS alumni. Congratulations!

Jae Sung Shrader ’09 and Noel Thomas recently celebrated their marriage in a beautiful ceremony in Portugal this past September. The couple first met at a gala for Asian American attorneys in New York City.

THE KEEN FAMILY (THOMAS ‘09, HANNAH ‘12, JANE, AND JONATHAN)

Thomas Keen visited Leysin to spend time with his sister, Hannah '12, and his parents, Jonathan Keen and Jane Milne-Keen, who were all part of this year's Summer in Switzerland team. He is now living in Abu Dhabi where he works as a teacher.

GUY DE BORDAS ‘13

Guy de Bordas works as a football agent in Mexico. He recently visited campus and also attended the Mexico City Global Family Event in 2024!

GAVIN EASLEY ‘13

“Recently on my honeymoon, my wife and I traveled throughout Europe, and there was no way we could not stop in Leysin. I had yet to return to our delightful mountain town since I had left more than ten years prior. Upon returning and visiting LAS, I was mesmerized by the changes and new developments. We received an incredibly warm welcome from some old and new faces, which made the reconvening all the more special.” It was great to see you, Gavin!

ABIGAIL RAM (NOKUTHABA NDLOVU) '14

Abigail got married this year! "My husband is a sweet and thoughtful man—the kind who surprised me by learning my language on Duolingo just

so he could say 'I love you' in Zulu. He is talented, hardworking, and takes great care of the people he loves. Our wedding was truly special. We said 'I do' in Noordwijk, a charming small town where I lived for two years when I first arrived in The Netherlands, 10 years ago. Congratulations, Abigail!

DANIIL GERSHMAN ‘17

Daniil visited LAS in November and visited Mark Fryer. Daniil is now a senior consultant with Ernst and Young and is currently working for the Italian Ministry of Education in Rome.

OZGE TUKEK ‘17

In November, Ozge traveled to Leysin to show her husband (Berat) around the village that she had shared so many stories about. Ogzge has settled in Istanbul where she has a clothing brand called Ozgecan.

GONZALO YELA PUERTAS '24

In summer 2024, Gonzalo received his blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Gonzalo trained consistently with Mr. Andy Lushman in the first year that BJJ was offered as a student activity at LAS. Congratulations Gonzalo!

We teamed up with drone pilot ALEXANDRE COQUOZ to capture something special for PANORAMA LEYSIN FROM ABOVE, through all four seasons. Whether it’s the golden trees of AUTUMN, snowy rooftops in WINTER, the shifting light and thaw of early SPRING, or a beautiful SUMMER sunset at Prafandaz, this video is a LOVE LETTER to the place we all call HOME. If you’ve ever walked these PATHS or looked out at these mountains, we hope this brings you back to the BEAUTY OF LIFE on the MAGIC MOUNTAIN.

Watch the video here!