This mural was created as part of the collaboration between Fetch Park and the Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta for the Switzerland vs. Qatar World Cup watch party held at Fetch Park Buckhead on June 13, 2026 during the FIFA World Cup 26™. The artwork celebrates Switzerland’s diversity, innovation, peacebuilding, natural beauty, and its many connections to Atlanta. Inspired by both her Swiss roots and her experiences in Georgia, USA, artist Olivia Perner sought to bring Switzerland closer to the Atlanta community and showcase the country beyond its most familiar stereotypes. The mural also includes her dog, Bagel, whom she adopted from a local shelter, reflecting her personal connection to Atlanta and to Fetch Park. Learn more about the mural and its many Swiss and Atlanta-inspired elements below.
1) Innovation
Consistently ranked as one of the world’s most innovative countries, Switzerland’s contributions in many fields are marked by a forward-thinking spirit. The country’s world-renowned universities and research institutions are instrumental in making Switzerland a leader in innovation. Swiss scientists, companies, and startups are critical in pioneering solutions not only to the most pressing issues of today, but also to the problems of tomorrow. This innovative spirit extends beyond Switzerland’s borders, and is evident in its collaboration and partnership with the United States, for example in the design of our future cities and work environments. Swiss academics and scientists have a significant impact across the United States. From pioneering research and discoveries to teaching and mentoring students, Swiss professionals make key contributions in American higher education every day.
2) Economic Relations
Historically, economic relations between Switzerland and the United States have been strong and benefitted both countries. They remain strong today and, despite its small population, Switzerland is the sixth largest foreign direct investor in the United States and Swiss companies directly create half a million U.S. jobs.. While Swiss companies have headquarters and support many jobs in the U.S. in various sectors, at the same time, Switzerland is an attractive market for American companies. Switzerland and the United States are closely connected through intensive cross-border investments. The U.S. is Switzerland’s most important destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) – more than Germany, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom combined.
3) Sustainability
At both the governmental and social levels, Switzerland is committed to sustainability across sectors by actively supporting and advancing sustainable development initiatives such as the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda. Despite its comparatively small geographic size, Switzerland is home to many unique ecosystems – it is even nicknamed the “Water Tower of Europe” – and takes seriously the responsibility for conserving its vast natural resources. As Switzerland and the United States face similar sustainability challenges, joint efforts to tackle problems more efficiently are key to achieving our shared goals.
4) Culture
Switzerland has a rich and diverse culture, reflected not only in its four national languages (German, French, Italian, and Romansh), but also in the breadth of its art, literature, film, and music sectors. Geographically surrounded by five European countries, Switzerland has nonetheless developed its own unique culture – one that is famous for driving innovation and creativity. Cultural exchange between Switzerland and the U.S. provides the foundation for growth in many other areas.
5) International Partnership
Known as “sister republics”, Switzerland and the United States share several key values and principles. Both democracies are active in the protection of human rights, are important voices in peacebuilding, and are committed to fostering international cooperation and dialogue. Switzerland’s important role as a global partner is evident in the city of Geneva (often referred to as “International Geneva”), which is not only the birthplace of the International Committee of the Red Cross, but also hosts the headquarters of many international organizations, including the European headquarters of the United Nations. From January 2025 until the end of 2027, Switzerland is serving for the fourth time on the UN’s Human Rights Council, using its term to strengthen this significant intergovernmental body, promote human rights across the UN system, and implement them at national level.
6) Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta
The Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta strengthens diplomatic, economic, scientific, educational, and cultural ties between Switzerland and the southeastern United States. Located in Midtown Atlanta, the Consulate General has a team of 12 employees and serves a region covering eleven U.S. states. It provides consular services to Swiss citizens, including passport and civil status matters, and supports visa applications for travelers to Switzerland. The Consulate also promotes innovation, business, academic, and cultural partnerships, helping to connect Atlanta and the wider Southeast with Swiss organizations and initiatives. Switzerland views Atlanta as an important gateway to the U.S. Southeast and a key hub for international engagement.
7) Peace
Switzerland is internationally known for its tradition of neutrality and peacebuilding. Geneva hosts many international organizations dedicated to diplomacy, humanitarian work, and conflict resolution. This Swiss tradition of dialogue and mediation has influenced global cooperation, including partnerships with U.S. institutions and organizations based in Atlanta. Switzerland has many years of experience and a strong track record in promoting peace and helping to prevent armed conflicts. As part of its peace policy, Switzerland provides its good offices in conflict situations, including mediation services and protecting power mandates. For example, it supports peaceful electoral processes in post-conflict countries. This may involve the drafting of common codes of conduct banning hate speech, religious symbols, and excessively confrontational language in election campaigns in order to build trust between political parties, promote democratic compromise, and ensure that election results are accepted by all parties. Switzerland regularly hosts peace conferences and peace negotiations. Switzerland’s flexibility, professionalism, and discretion are widely acknowledged in UN peace processes and by parties to conflict.
Switzerland also served as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council from 2023–2024. As a member of the Security Council, Switzerland strove to ensure, among others, that the following issues were addressed:
• Confidence building and continued cooperation among states within the Security Council
• Effective UN peacebuilding
• Respect for human rights
• Protection of minorities
• Equal participation of women in peace processes and UN peacekeeping missions
8) Jet d’Eau
The Jet d’Eau is one of Switzerland’s most famous landmarks. Located on Lake Geneva, the fountain symbolizes innovation and Swiss engineering. It represents Switzerland’s global image of precision, quality, and environmental beauty. Originally created in 1886 as part of a hydraulic power network, the Jet d’Eau later became a symbol of Geneva. Today, the fountain shoots water 140 meters (459 feet) into the air at speeds of around 200 km/h (124 mph), making it one of the tallest fountains in the world. The fountain pumps around 500 liters of water per second and is powered using renewable electricity, reflecting Switzerland’s strong focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
9) Swiss Engineering in Atlanta
Swiss innovation can be found in several iconic attractions across the Atlanta region. The Summit Skyride at Stone Mountain Park was built by the Swiss company Von Roll, a global pioneer in aerial tramway technology. Atlanta’s SkyView observation wheel also features Swiss-made passenger cabins manufactured by CWA, a Swiss company recognized worldwide for its expertise in cable car, gondola, and observation wheel cabin design. These connections highlight Switzerland’s longstanding reputation for precision engineering, innovation, and high-quality transportation technologies.
10) Olivia & Bagel
Olivia, the artist of this artwork and an employee of the Consulate General of Switzerland in Atlanta, discovered her love for dogs during a visit to the Lifeline animal shelter in Atlanta. That experience inspired her to one day adopt a dog herself. Only three weeks later, she adopted her dog named “Bagel” from a shelter in Chattanooga. Bagel had been rescued after being found abandoned beside a road at only one week old together with his mother and siblings. Today, Olivia and Bagel enjoy spending their free time together at Fetch Park in Atlanta.
11) Army Knife
The Swiss Army Knife, created by Victorinox, is one of Switzerland’s best-known inventions. It symbolizes versatility, reliability, and innovation. The knife became internationally famous through outdoor culture, travel, and the military, and remains popular in the United States, including Georgia. The original Swiss Army Knife was developed in the 1890s for soldiers of the Swiss Army. It combined multiple tools such as a blade, screwdriver, and can opener into one compact pocketknife. Over time, the Swiss Army Knife became a worldwide symbol of Swiss precision engineering, functionality, and quality craftsmanship.
12) Swiss Mountains and Hiking Trails
The Swiss Alps are famous for hiking, mountaineering, and sustainable tourism. Switzerland developed one of the world’s most extensive hiking trail systems, inspiring outdoor recreation globally. Switzerland has more than 65,000 kilometers (40,000 miles) of marked hiking trails maintained across the country. The Matterhorn, one of the world’s most recognizable mountains, stands at 4,478 meters (14,692 feet). Switzerland’s highest mountain is the Dufourspitze in the Monte Rosa massif at 4,634 meters (15,203 feet).
13) Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog originates from the Swiss canton of Bern. Traditionally used as farm dogs, they were historically used to guard farms, and assist with agricultural work in the Swiss Alps. Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their calm temperament, loyalty, and strength. “Sparta”, the Bernese Mountain Dog featured in the artwork, belongs to Stephen, CEO of Fetch Park.
14) St. Bernard Rescue Dogs
The famous St. Bernard rescue dogs from Switzerland are renowned for their role in saving travelers stranded in the snowy Alps. The small barrels often depicted around their necks traditionally contained supplies such as schnapps, which was believed to help warm victims suffering from extreme cold. Originating at the Great St. Bernard Pass between Switzerland and Italy, these dogs were used by monks to locate and rescue people caught in avalanches and severe winter storms. Over time, St. Bernards became global symbols of rescue work, courage, loyalty, and hospitality, helping to strengthen Switzerland’s image around the world. Switzerland is also home to several other well-known dog breeds, including the Bernese Mountain Dog, Appenzeller Sennenhund, Entlebucher Mountain Dog, and Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.
15) The Fetch Park
Founded by Atlanta entrepreneur Stephen Ochs, Fetch Park was created from a simple idea: to build a space where people and their dogs could connect, socialize, and feel part of a community. What began as an innovative concept has grown into a unique social hub that brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds through shared experiences. Today, Fetch Park operates multiple locations, including Old Fourth Ward, Buckhead, The Works, and Alpharetta in Georgia, as well as a location in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As the host venue for numerous community events, partnerships, and cultural exchanges, Fetch Park reflects values of connection, innovation, and inclusivity. More information can be found at Fetch Park.
16) Watches
Swiss watches are renowned worldwide for their precision engineering, craftsmanship, and timeless design. Prestigious brands such as Rolex, Tissot, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet (AP), and Omega have become global symbols of quality and excellence. Swiss watchmakers also play prominent roles in international sports: Tissot serves as the Official Timekeeper of the NBA, Rolex has long been associated with Formula 1 and other major sporting events, and Omega was the Official Timekeeper of the Olympic Games. Swiss watchmaking has helped establish Switzerland’s reputation for innovation, luxury, and reliability. Swiss watchmaking traditions date back to the 16th century, particularly in regions such as Geneva and the Jura Mountains. Many Swiss timepieces are passed down through generations as family heirlooms, valued for their exceptional craftsmanship, durability, and enduring elegance.
17) Soccer
Soccer is deeply connected to Switzerland internationally through organizations based there, especially FIFA. This artwork was created for the public viewing event of the Switzerland vs. Qatar match held at Fetch Park during the FIFA World Cup 2026. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, further strengthens the connection between Switzerland and Atlanta through international sports and cultural exchange. Switzerland successfully qualified for the tournament and has a long tradition of participation in international soccer competitions. Hopp Schwiiz!
18) Cheese
Swiss cheese-making traditions date back centuries and are deeply rooted in the country’s agricultural heritage. Historically, many mountain communities used cheese production as a way to preserve milk during periods when refrigeration did not exist and fresh food was scarce, particularly throughout the long Alpine winters. Transforming milk into cheese allowed farmers to store valuable nutrients for extended periods. Today, famous varieties such as Gruyère, Emmental or Appenzeller are recognized and enjoyed around the world. Swiss dairy production combines traditional mountain farming practices with some of the highest food quality and animal welfare standards globally. Cheese remains an essential part of Swiss culinary culture and rural life, especially in Alpine regions where dairy farming has been practiced for generations. Switzerland produces more than 200 varieties of cheese, and the average Swiss resident consumes approximately 23 kilograms (about 50 pounds) of cheese per year, making Switzerland one of the world’s leading cheese-consuming nations.
19) Gotthard Tunnel
The Gotthard Base Tunnel is the world’s longest railway tunnel and a major achievement in Swiss engineering. It demonstrates Switzerland’s expertise in transportation infrastructure, safety, and sustainability. The tunnel stretches 57 kilometers (35.4 miles) through the Swiss Alps and officially opened in 2016 after nearly two decades of construction. It significantly improved European rail transportation by allowing faster and more efficient freight and passenger traffic through the Alps.
20) Public Transport – MARTA
Switzerland is renowned for having one of the world’s most efficient, reliable, and extensively used public transportation systems. Its integrated network of trains, trams, buses, boats, and mountain railways connects even the most remote communities with remarkable punctuality and convenience. This expertise in transportation extends far beyond Switzerland’s borders. Atlanta’s MARTA rail system has a strong Swiss connection through its partnership with Stadler Rail, a leading Swiss train manufacturer headquartered in Bussnang. MARTA ordered new rail cars from Stadler to modernize Atlanta’s public transportation system, bringing Swiss rail engineering and technology directly into everyday life in the city. Known internationally for innovative, sustainable, and accessible transportation solutions, Stadler Rail is helping shape the future of mobility in Atlanta through one of the largest Swiss transportation projects connected to the region.
21) Marcellus Rolle
The relationship between Switzerland and Atlanta is strengthened not only through institutions, but also through people whose lives and work bridge communities across borders. Individuals with ties to both regions contribute to cultural exchange, business cooperation, education, and diplomacy between Switzerland and the southeastern United States. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Marcellus Rolle serves as Head of Communications and Public Diplomacy at the Embassy of Switzerland in Washington, D.C., advancing engagement to highlight the tangible impact Switzerland has across the United States, from innovation and investment to academic collaboration and job creation, underscoring the mutual benefits that define the Swiss-American partnership. His professional journey and story reflect the enduring connection between Atlanta and Switzerland and embody the people-to-people ties that continue to shape the transatlantic relationship.
22) Edelweiss and Enzian
The Edelweiss is one of Switzerland’s national symbols. Alpine flowers such as Edelweiss and Enzian are protected in Switzerland because they represent the country’s natural heritage and biodiversity. These flowers only grow in sensitive Alpine ecosystems and have become important symbols of Swiss mountain culture, nature conservation, and national identity.
23) International Geneva
Geneva is one of the world’s leading centers for diplomacy and international cooperation. It hosts the United Nations European headquarters and many humanitarian organizations, making Switzerland a global center for peace and dialogue. More than 40 international organizations and hundreds of NGOs are based in Geneva, including agencies working on health, human rights, trade, refugees, science, and humanitarian affairs.
24) Red Cross
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was founded in Switzerland in 1863 by Swiss businessman Henry Dunant and several partners in Geneva. The organization emerged after Dunant witnessed the suffering of wounded soldiers during the Battle of Solferino in Italy. The Red Cross movement established international humanitarian principles and helped create the Geneva Conventions, which define protections for victims of war and armed conflict. Today, the ICRC operates worldwide in conflict zones, disaster areas, and humanitarian emergencies, influencing relief and emergency response systems globally, including in the United States.
25) FIFA
FIFA, the governing body of world soccer, is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. Through international tournaments and global soccer development, FIFA connects Switzerland with cities worldwide, including Atlanta as a major sports destination. Founded in 1904, FIFA organizes the FIFA World Cup and many other international tournaments. Switzerland became home to FIFA because of the country’s political neutrality, international accessibility, and strong tradition of hosting global organizations.
26) CERN
CERN is one of the world’s leading scientific research centers. Scientists from many countries collaborate there on particle physics and advanced technologies. CERN represents Switzerland’s role in global scientific innovation. Researchers at CERN study the fundamental structure of matter and the universe using highly advanced particle accelerators such as the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), the world’s largest particle accelerator. Their work helps scientists better understand particles, energy, dark matter, and the origins of the universe. The World Wide Web was invented at CERN by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989. This Swiss-based innovation transformed global communication, business, education, and technology worldwide, including the digital economy of Atlanta.
27) Academia
École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) is one of Europe’s leading universities in science and engineering. Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, EPFL is known for its beautiful campus, international community, and strong culture of innovation.
Switzerland is home to several world-renowned institutions, including ETH Zurich, where Albert Einstein studied and later lectured. Widely recognized as one of the world’s leading universities for science and technology, ETH Zurich has been associated with 22 Nobel Prize laureates. The University of St. Gallen is internationally acclaimed for its excellence in business and economics, while the city’s historic Abbey Library of Saint Gall is renowned as one of the most important and beautiful monastic libraries in the world.
Swiss and American universities regularly collaborate through research partnerships, student exchanges, and joint innovation projects. Programs such as ThinkSwiss help strengthen academic ties between Switzerland and the United States, giving students and researchers valuable opportunities to learn from one another and build international connections.
28) Atlanta’s SkyView Wheel
Atlanta’s iconic SkyView observation wheel offers visitors breathtaking views of the city skyline from nearly 20 stories above downtown. While many people may not realize it, observation wheels around the world often rely on expertise from Swiss and Swiss-linked engineering companies. Switzerland has a long tradition in cable transport, gondola, and passenger cabin technology, with companies such as CWA Constructions – part of the Swiss-based HTI Group – providing cabins and components for major observation wheels and transportation systems worldwide. The inclusion of the wheel highlights how Swiss engineering and innovation can be found in unexpected places across Atlanta and beyond.
29) Friendship Treaty Switzerland – USA
Switzerland and the United States have maintained strong diplomatic relations for more than 170 years. Friendship, commerce, and extradition treaties established long-term cooperation in trade, investment, diplomacy, science, and education. Switzerland was one of the first European countries to recognize the United States, and both countries continue to maintain strong economic and political ties. Swiss companies employ thousands of people across the United States, including in Georgia and the Atlanta region.
30) The Swiss Flag
Prominently featured throughout the mural, the Swiss flag serves as a symbol of Switzerland’s identity, values, and global presence. One of only two square national flags in the world, its distinctive white cross on a red background is recognized internationally and reflects principles closely associated with Switzerland, including neutrality, humanitarian engagement, innovation, and international cooperation.
31) Four Seasons
Switzerland’s diverse landscapes transform dramatically throughout the year, from snow-covered Alpine winters and vibrant spring meadows to sunny summer lakes and colorful autumn forests, offering unique experiences in every season.
32) Tourism
Switzerland welcomes more than 40 million overnight stays each year from visitors around the world, drawn by its breathtaking Alpine landscapes, pristine lakes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. From iconic destinations such as the Matterhorn, Jungfraujoch, and Lake Geneva to world-class skiing, hiking, rail journeys, and culinary experiences, tourism serves as an important bridge between people and cultures while showcasing the diversity and beauty of Switzerland throughout all four seasons.
33) Traditional Chalets
The iconic wooden chalets of Switzerland symbolize the country’s Alpine heritage, craftsmanship, and close connection to nature. Originally built by mountain farmers and herders, chalets were designed to withstand harsh winters, heavy snowfall, and changing weather conditions. Their sloped roofs allow snow to slide off easily, while large overhanging eaves protect the wooden structures from rain and snow. Traditionally constructed from locally sourced timber and stone, chalets reflect both practical engineering and regional craftsmanship, serving as enduring reminders of Swiss traditions, resilience, and mountain life.
34) Water
Often referred to as Europe’s water tower, Switzerland is home to thousands of lakes, glaciers, rivers, and mountain springs. Water shapes the country’s landscapes, supports biodiversity, and provides a source of clean renewable energy through hydropower. Switzerland is also renowned for its exceptionally high drinking water quality, with most tap water sourced directly from natural springs, groundwater, and protected mountain reservoirs. Strict environmental standards and careful resource management ensure that clean, safe drinking water remains one of the country’s most valuable natural assets.
