The Gathering of the Creative and Cultural Industries in Valais
- November 26
- from 9:30 a.m.
- Théâtre du Crochetan, Monthey
Creative Collaborations and Cultural Innovations: Where Art, Science, and Entrepreneurship Converge
The 2026 edition of the PRISM conference explores how creative practices can become economic opportunities, open up new markets, or find new areas of application—all through inspiring and concrete examples.
Industrial expertise on display. Used materials transformed into new solutions for a variety of fields. Scientific knowledge made accessible through play. A musical heritage presented outside its usual context. To move from examples to hands-on experience, the afternoon invites you to discover and try out Valais’s creative expertise through demonstrations and installations. These are all opportunities to leave with useful ideas for your own activities, while enjoying the chances for discussion and networking offered throughout the day.
Program
09h45
A Message from PRISM
Leonard Dayer, PRISM Program Manager
10h00
Necto: How the Dialogue Between Art and Industry Pushes the Boundaries of Architecture
Pierre-Yves Bonvin, Steiger Participations
Barbara Mermoud, Steiger Participations
Mariana Popescu, MIT – Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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An industrial knitting machine at the Venice Biennale? That’s the challenge taken on by Necto, the result of a collaboration between Mariana Popescu, an assistant professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston; Steiger Participations, a Valais-based company specializing in knitting machines; and a consortium of designers and experts. This extraordinary project, blending art, technology, and design, illustrates how creativity can be integrated with industrial expertise to give rise to new applications and push the boundaries of architecture.
10h45
DopaMind: When Gaming Becomes an Interactive Prevention Tool
Speakers to be confirmed
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What if understanding the mechanisms that influence our decision-making could be achieved through an interactive game? This is the challenge taken up by DopaMind, a project led by Conexkt and HEIG-VD on behalf of Promotion Santé Valais. Through a fun and immersive experience, the game helps players gain a better understanding of the various systems involved in our choices and how marketing strategies can influence them. It is a concrete example of how creativity can make complex scientific knowledge accessible and raise awareness amongst new audiences.
11h15
Networking Break
12h00
Keynote to be confirmed
Keynote to be confirmed
12h30
Interactive Media Designer: Tomorrow’s Talent Is Being Developed Today
Daniel Schmid, EDHEA
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The next generation of professionals in the creative and cultural industries is already being trained in Valais. The new Interactive Media Designer course (CFC with vocational baccalaureate), launched by EDHEA in Sierre, provides a practical response to the needs of creative businesses and organisations. Interactive Media Designers are thus able to develop interactive digital experiences, from visual design to the development of websites, applications and multimedia content.
12h45
Givré: from socially conscious upcycling to an entrepreneurial venture
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How can a community-led project centred on upcycling and sustainability be turned into a business? Givré, a workshop based in Vétroz, has developed a bespoke approach: listening to needs, prototyping and adapting its techniques to each project. From Kargobike cargo bikes to equipment developed for the Samaritains Romands, the collective demonstrates how creativity and expertise can provide practical solutions to a wide range of challenges.
13h15
Lunch break
14h30
“Discovery” Afternoon
Head to the lobby of the Théâtre du Crochetan, which has been transformed into a vibrant gathering place featuring key players from Valais’ creative and cultural industries. Illustration, video mapping, lighting design, interactive games, textile upcycling, eco-resin, high-tech industrial knitting, and even virtual reality: there are so many worlds to discover through the exhibits and interactive installations.
- The Art of Gueguel – Illustration and acting
- Arcanel – Audiovisual Production and Video Mapping
- Kahlumen – Light Design and Well-Being
- DopaMind – Immersive Gameplay and Decision-Making Mechanics
- Givré – Textile Design and Upcycling
- Coloc Atelier – Product Design and Eco-Resin
- Génie Culturel – XR/VR Creation
- Idiap – AI and robotics for creativity
16h00
Carillon Sauvage: Heritage Reinvented Live
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What if the ancient art of carillon could reinvent itself right before our eyes, blending tradition with digital creativity?That is precisely the challenge taken on by Christophe Burgess, bell ringer at the church in Martigny, who is reinterpreting his craft through Carillon Sauvage, a groundbreaking performance in which digital technology enriches and transforms the art of carillon with decidedly modern musical touches. This project powerfully demonstrates how the creative and cultural industries can breathe new life into and reinvent our heritage, making it accessible beyond its traditional context.
16:30
Closing words
16h45
Cocktail reception and social time among the participants
Meet the speakers
Discover the projects and inspiring people who will bring this day to life.
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Practical Information
Pricing
Attendance at the conference is free, but you must register in advance.
Location
The event will take place at the Théâtre du Crochetan in Monthey (Avenue du Théâtre 9, 1870 Monthey).
How do I get there?
BY TRAIN
- SBB Station – Monthey-Gare stop (7-minute walk)
- AOMC Station – Monthey-Ville stop (1-minute walk)
BY CAR
- From Lausanne, take the St-Triphon-Monthey highway exit
- From Sion, take the Bex highway exit
PARKING
- Cotterg Parking (covered)
- Cotterg Parking (outdoor)
- Parking Hôtel de Ville
For more information, visit the website of Théâtre du Crochetan
Accessibility
- An accessible parking space is available behind the theater.
- Drop-off in front of the theater is permitted for a short time.
- The theater is equipped with an elevator.
For more information, contact the Théâtre du Crochetan at 024 475 79 11.
Registration
*The registration form is only available in French
A big thank you to...
