La Micheline

Geneva artist Jazi transforms railway wall at Pont-de-Ville

A community-driven project
Residents of the Pont-de-Ville neighborhood, tired of the railway wall being repeatedly defaced with unsightly graffiti, proposed turning it into a real work of art. The Municipality of Chêne-Bougeries embraced the idea, and the Administrative Council approved the launch of a public art project.

Honoring the past
A call for proposals was sent to several French-speaking graffiti artists. Geneva-based artist Jazi, well-known for his distinctive and respected style, was ultimately chosen. Among the sketches he submitted, one depicting the Micheline train captured the Council’s attention. This piece pays tribute to the historic Michelin light railcars that once ran between Eaux-Vives and Annemasse—on the same route now used by the Greenway. These unique trains, equipped with Michelin tires, offered an alternative to traditional locomotives in the 20th century.

A shared achievement
Since the wall is owned by the SBB (Swiss Federal Railways), an official request—including Jazi’s final design—was submitted to obtain permission for the mural. The completed work, the result of close cooperation between residents, the artist, local authorities, and the SBB, is now open to the public.

The mural not only enhances the area visually but also weaves in a meaningful piece of local history. It can be admired during a walk along the scenic banks of the Seymaz River.