THE CHRISTMAS LIST

Mary Katrantzou, designer
1. A trip to Las Pozas – Mexico
Las Pozas was the creation of Edward James, an eccentric English poet and artist, and patron of the Surrealist movement.
Its origins date back to 1947 when Edward, living in semi exile in Mexico, acquired the coffee plantation and created the surreal
gardens that are now known as Las Pozas. The natural waterfalls and pools, interlaced with towering Surrealist sculptures in
concrete creating an awe-inspiring setting. We recently created a customized dress for Tilda Swinton for a shoot, taking place
in Las Pozas and have been fascinated by the surreal location ever since.
2. “Echoes of Voices in the High Towers” by Robert Montgomery
Receiving books at Christmas is great as I rarely buy them for myself; I love giving them too. This book is a collection of photographs
of Montgomery’s art from his exhibition around Berlin, poetic text-based works that he typically plasters across existing billboards.
3. Diptique “Baies” noir large scented candle
I love Diptyque candles; we have the Sandalwood ones in the studio and I have the Gardenia ones at home.
I think the Baies noir large candle is perfect for Christmas, so I am hoping to unwrap this one this Christmas.
4. Lomography “20th Anniversary” Analogue Camera
I work so much with images that I have become somewhat obsessed with beautiful photography.
I love analogue photography as it holds that whimsical timelessness that I adore. Everything is
amplified, making ordinary objects stand out, enhancing details that would normally go unnoticed;
mysterious vignettes that frame the shot, light leaks, lo-fi grain, beautiful blurs, the magical balance
of contrast and saturation. I can’t wait to experiment with different kinds of films, and try different tips
and techniques, so I’m hoping Santa brings me one this Christmas!
5. Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has To Travel
Christmas is basically the only time of my year where i get to take a break for a few days. Its a great time to catch up
on films which people have recommended to me or ones I have been wanting to see for ever. I love documentaries,
especially when the focus is Diana Vreeland, an enduring icon who has had such a strong influence on the course
of fashion, art and culture. “The Eye Has to Travel” is an intimate portrait and a vibrant celebration of one of the
most influential women of the twentieth century and definitely on my watch list this Christmas.