Thursday 31 March 2011
TALL DARK SILENT STRANGER NEEDED,
I sometimes want to be entrapped in a lift with a tall dark strange man who I can pretend to be anonymous with, to stop my isolation and loneliness in what feels like my peninsula years. I want a man who says "Don't speak, don't move, don't acknowledge, just fantasize, savour and relish in what might never happen again Stolen moments are the best.
Wednesday 30 March 2011
AS I LIKE IT, FIRST FEW MOMENTS OF REHEARSAL, 4th-14th July 2011
The production starts the first two weeks of July, from the 4th - 14th July at the Chelsea Theatre.
Lee Sharrock is doing the press for the art side of things lee@leesharrock.co.uk
Meena at meena@meenaakhera.com is doing the other press
Eileen at eileen@eileenkoch.com is doing the press in America.
If anybody wants tickets they can be bought at The Chelsea Theatre's box office, which is at Worlds End.
Justine Glenton Actress
Charles Johan Sebastian Eliasch Actor
Lyall Watson Writer Director
Amanda Eliasch Writer Producer
Nicholas Haslam Set Design
Tuesday 29 March 2011
HOW I ENDED THIS SUMMER BY ALEXEI POPOGREBSKY
There is something about Russian Film and this film is no exception. Not for the lovers of fast action. Alexei, the director takes the audience into another world. The world where time seems to not exist. With ravishing cinema photography and a slow script leading to really nowhere, I was gripped. Was I bored? Occasionally, but not really. It was about losing time somewhere where there was nobody except one other person. The fish, the radiation, the loud electric music of youth, and desperation. Not for a person who cannot stay still, I was sitting with a friend who became irritated and fiddled with her telephone constantly. I in turn was happy lulling myself into gentle relaxation. I actually loved the film, winner of The American Express prize, I was the guest of The British Film Institute.
CHELSEA THEATRE." AS I LIKE IT" a play about love, in one act by Amanda Eliasch and Lyall Watson, 4th July - 14th July. Starring Justine Gilston and Charles Eliasch
http://www.chelseatheatre.org.uk/index.php?pid=63
Monday 28 March 2011
Sunday 27 March 2011
Saturday 26 March 2011
PETER BROOK's MAGIC FLUTE
Tonight I had a most wonderful operatic experience. Peter Brook, always modern, always energetic, gave this lengthy opera of Mozart's a new look. Although the singing was only adequate in my view, the whole energy of the piece was incredible. I wanted to watch. I didn't want to leave immediately, my attention was grabbed and I have never been so happy. It was a thoroughly contemporary version. The Barbican is always tricky for me to find, but I so wanted to see this, that I made sure I arrived on time.
Mozart is shown to be wicked, naughty with a great sense of humour and the singers have a tenderness that is appealing. Make every effort to go. Personally I find sitting through operas tricky and although I adore them I have to be in the mood. This time I cannot give the whole experience enough praise.
On another note apparently they are cutting down Lime trees in Nottinghill Gate. The reckless chopping of trees is the most stupid pass time. We need trees in London, the more the merrier. Think before you chop, a friend is fighting a big battle with her neighbours who wish to take the Lime trees down. Go for it girl.
Mozart is shown to be wicked, naughty with a great sense of humour and the singers have a tenderness that is appealing. Make every effort to go. Personally I find sitting through operas tricky and although I adore them I have to be in the mood. This time I cannot give the whole experience enough praise.
On another note apparently they are cutting down Lime trees in Nottinghill Gate. The reckless chopping of trees is the most stupid pass time. We need trees in London, the more the merrier. Think before you chop, a friend is fighting a big battle with her neighbours who wish to take the Lime trees down. Go for it girl.
I HAVE BEEN A BUSY BEE
Some things happen all at the same time, my play that I wrote with Lyall Watson last year is at last going on at the Chelsea Theatre on the from about the 1st-14th July. It is so exciting working on things together with this old friend from RADA. He has a wonderful brain and I always learn something.
My neon signs are being shown at the Leadapron in Melrose, California on the 16th June, again I worked with friends, I like this the best. Kay kindly drew me cartoon of me committing the 7 deadly sins. I feel every human is capable of sinning and some are too self righteous. The human needs to be a whole lot kinder. I hope people will find the neons full of humour.
Lastly my poetry book is coming out too, the Sins of a Butterfly. So I shall be busy for the next few months. I like it that way. Vincenzo Demaar has put them to music and I am very excited about the whole production. Thank you all for being so much fun to work with.
The Whitechapel Gallery threw open their doors the other night for an incredible night of drama, film, dance and auction. Sponsored by the most comfortable shoes in the world Tods. I hung out with the lovely Tim Noble, Mat Collishaw, Fiona Banner and Edouard Desforges, who the photographers chased around as if he was a film star. Well he does look like one.
The huge collector Anita Zabludowicz was there too..and Paul Fryer amongst others. I missed the Eco friendly dinner costing thousands but I love my art world better.
Off to see Peter Brook's A Magic Flute tonight.
Yesterday I made a flying visit to Sussex on a boiling hot Spring day. I looked at houses and goodness knows how any one is expected to afford the country. The houses were a fortune. I loved all of them, sometimes I miss green.
My neon signs are being shown at the Leadapron in Melrose, California on the 16th June, again I worked with friends, I like this the best. Kay kindly drew me cartoon of me committing the 7 deadly sins. I feel every human is capable of sinning and some are too self righteous. The human needs to be a whole lot kinder. I hope people will find the neons full of humour.
Lastly my poetry book is coming out too, the Sins of a Butterfly. So I shall be busy for the next few months. I like it that way. Vincenzo Demaar has put them to music and I am very excited about the whole production. Thank you all for being so much fun to work with.
Yesterday I made a flying visit to Sussex on a boiling hot Spring day. I looked at houses and goodness knows how any one is expected to afford the country. The houses were a fortune. I loved all of them, sometimes I miss green.
Friday 25 March 2011
Thursday 24 March 2011
EMILIA WICKSTEAD AND HER THOUGHTS ON DESIGNING
How long have you been a designer?
I moved to London when I was 19 years old to study my degree in Fashion Design and Marketing at Central Saint Martin’s and eventually pursue my career in fashion.
I have been designing since I graduated in 2007 and I launched my label in 2008 with private showrooms in Chelsea. In October 2009 I opened the Emilia Wickstead flagship Atelier in Belgravia.
What inspires you?
Timeless, classic era’s such as the 1950’s – I think icons such as Grace Kelly have inspired my work.
My current 2011 collection is reminiscent of playful Palm Springs, elegant pool parties and the romantic ally chic lounging lifestyle of the 1970’s. I am also inspired by vibrant colour palettes and unusual textured fabrics that bring garments to life.
How many collections do you do a year?
We show collections twice a year for both seasons– however our concept is slightly different to most designers in the sense that we show the current season rather than the one ahead.
So at the moment we have Spring Summer in the Atelier but this can be adapted and worn throughout the year and is ultimately trans seasonal luxury.
You allow clients to choose fabric and make their clothes almost couture, why do you this, other designers are not able to do this?
I believe that it is important for my clients to feel as if they can become a part of the design process and create something totally unique.
That is why we stock limited prints every season so that once they sell out not everyone is wearing them. Clients love having the option of choosing from a wide variety of colours and fabrics and we have the ability offer this service to them.
Your mother was a dressmaker how involved is she with your collection?
From a very young age I used to sit and watch my mother in her work room. She was also a designer at the time and I would watch her for hours and take in the surroundings.
So in that sense my mother has been involved since the beginning and been a huge inspiration to me as well as giving advice when it comes to the business and helping out with fashion shows we hold in London.
In fact we have just taken her on full-time to run the production from Italy and she is a great asset to the company.
You are from New Zealand, when did you start working here?
I first started working here during my time at Central Saint Martin’s. I had a part-time job at a store called Birgit Israel and once graduated I then decided to start my own business.
Who is your favourite designer ever?
Miuccia Prada - If there is one luxury brand that I love, especially for its accessories then it would have to be this one. I have a collection of her handbags, wallets and shoes because the quality is beautiful and they never date.
What books and music do you read?
The latest book I have purchased is “Once Upon a Time” by Slim Aarons. Inspiration!!
Music: van Morrison, Fleetwood mac, bruce springstein
You have received a lot of attention in the press recently, has this changed the boutique at all in Pont Street.
The more coverage we get the more enquiries and visitors we have at the Atelier. Styles sell out when featured in the press absolutely however, I don’t believe this has changed the Atelier. We still very much remain a niche brand and have regular clients who have shopped with us from the beginning and select a new wardrobe every season to suit their individual needs.
We just happen to be a lot busier and the business is expanding dramatically with the helping hand of press!
What dress of yours would you like Kate Middleton to wear if you had any choice?
I think Kate would suit any of our styles as they are simple and classic and she also has an amazing figure that would be easy to dress.
If I had to choose any dress then it would be something young and colourful with a slight twist to keep her look fresh.
With the world changing rapidly how do you think the fashion world will cope? Eg earthquakes libya etc.
I think that the fashion world will cope. There is always fashion constant desire internationally. Enough of it to keep sales coming for the time being.
Which celebrity would you like to wear a dress or yours in Los Angeles.
Angelina Jolie - she has a great presence in the fashion world and is extremely beautiful. I like that she wears classic, elegant dresses but manages to give them an interesting / unique edge.
Do you think you will increase your collection?
This season we have certainly created a lot more looks and I think the bigger we get the more styles I will design but I want to keep it true to what i represent for the female form and not too overwhelming for the clients.
The idea is that they can adapt a style and add a sleeve, change the neckline or fabric and colour etc so this means there is much more scope to create something that you wouldn’t necessarily see hanging on the rail in store.
I would love to expand into the US market for sure.
By the time you are fifty what would like to have achieved?
I would love for Emilia Wickstead to become a successful, established international brand that is widely recognised in the fashion world and also renowned for its quality and unique approach to made-to-measure clothing.
It would be great to have our same atelier in a few other cities and working in the same way as we do in London.
I would also like to have dressed some of the most influential women of our time and to be widely recognised for this.
How do you feel about John Galliano and his dismissal at Dior? Would you like to be attached to a big name?
I feel very sad for him to have had such a public and tragic dismissal. What he did was completely incorrect and unforgivable however I do feel for him at the same time. His life was Dior.
Never say never – with regards to being attached to a big name!!
How many people do you employ?
In total London Based 8 full-time staff, wonderful interns and a small factory based in Italy.
Where do you like to spend your holidays?
I absolutely love Italy – the food, the people and of course the weather. You cannot go wrong!
Brazil is also a favourite which i visit often Рhome to my Brazilian fianc̩.
CONGRATULATIONS GRAYSON PERRY
Wednesday 23 March 2011
WHAT's ON IN MY WORLD
NEONS "MY SEVEN DEADLY SINS"
So listening to the pearls of wisdom and against others advice I like to try my hand at writing, poetry, neons, photography, decorating and music. I am not a person who is afraid to do this, although it is normal to do only one thing. I just like to live the most interesting life possible.
At the moment I have done the Seven Deadly Sins, based on some cartoons of me drawn by Kay Saatchi. Kay has many talents, she has never shown her cartoons before and probably would never have done so, but I loved them. I decided to make the images of me sinning into neons.
The artist I most adore is Tracey Emin, there is something within Tracey that I love. She is fragile, funny, witty and very clever. With rooms at the Tate and thought to be so talented, I made a neon of me 'a la Tracey' with loads of cash. Without Kay and Tracey, I just would not have had such an interesting time in the art world. In fact between them they encouraged and taught me so much.
POETRY "SINS OF A BUTTERFLY"
At the same time I was writing in the middles of the night and I have written a tiny book of poetry called "Sins of a Butterfly" It will be put to music by Vincenzo Demaar ,the spoken word by Gabrielle a friend of Vince's, I love her voice as it has a tranquility that I like.
PLAY "As I like it"
Last year Lyall Watson and I wrote two plays, one called Flashback and one called As I like it. We spent roughly a month together. We have written a play about a woman who loves life and is forever searching for real love against a back drop of drama and intrigue. It will be performed the first two weeks of July in the Chelsea Theatre, off the Kings Road, by another friend of mine called Justine Gilston and my son Charles Eliasch.
ELIZABETH TAYLOR's MEMORY WILL LIVE ON
Famous for turning a simple piece of lingerie in Butterfeld 8 into a glamorous silk slip and using her love of jewels, clothes looked incredible. Her violet eyes, figure, fiery and charming temper, were her passport to fame. Elizabeth will be sadly missed.
Tuesday 22 March 2011
THE BEST HOTEL IN FOWEY BY FAR WAS THE OLD QUAY HOUSE
Monday 21 March 2011
COUNTRY SPIRIT LAND, THE HOME OF KERRID THE GODDESS OF LOVE AND REJUVENTATION
When I was a child I used to visit Bodmin Moor often, so now I wanted to buy a house here. Actually I want to go home to London and see the crowds of people rushing about. In any case England has become so built up that at Taunton the Happy Cafe in the petrol station had crowds of grannies eating in it, I thought what were all these people doing not working?. People were actually enjoying this ugly place.
Eventually I arrived at the home of Daphne du Maurier's romantic novels, frenchman's creek countryside, visiting a house called Ladye Park which has a spring in it, this is blessed by the Goddess Kerrid. She is the goddess of love and rejuvenation. There is a fascinating story about her two sons, one good looking and one ugly, and she tries to give the ugly one the ability to see. Instead the good looking son drinks her brew on the stove by mistake and immediately sees what she is about to do. He decides to disappear and she catches him gobbling him up, only to give birth to him once again. When the early Christians arrived in Cornwall, the spring became the Catholic home until the reformation. The house was sadly damp and miserable. There was something misfortunate about it for me. Plus it had a camp side at the end of the lane. The only beautiful thing was the tiny stream, this made up for everything. Covered with moss it rushed passed me and here you understood the shift shaping spirit of Kerrid the Goddess.
Tomorrow I will race back to London in the most incredible range rover I have just rented for the day. Yes I needed it, and yes I will have enjoyed 24 hours in the country but now I am going home.
Sunday 20 March 2011
Saturday 19 March 2011
BEST DRESSED HEADS OF STATE 2011 In no order
Mary of Denmark
Carla Brunei
Princess Marie Chantal of Greece
Princess Letizia of Spain
Samantha Cameron
Princess Beatrice
Princess Michael of Kent
This list is in no particular order, if they have made it they deserved it. It is dressing for functions and duty. No fun here, but these women have shown flare and fortitude where some would rather hide away.
TWENTY-eight BEST DRESSED WOMEN IN THE WORLD...2011
Daphne Guinness
Number two
Madonna
Number three
Lynn Wyatt
Number four
Naomi Campbell
Number five
January Jones
Number six
Emma Stone
Number seven
Kate Moss
Number eight
Dita von Teese
Number nine
Franca Sozzani
Number ten
Victoria Beckham
Number eleven
Alexa Chung
Number twelve
Kate Winslet
Number thirteen
Keira Knightley
Number fourteen
Georgia May Jagger
Number fifteen
Rushka Bergman
Number sixteen
Poppy Delevigne
Number seventeen
Tilda Swinton
Number eighteen
Martha Sitwell
Number nineteen
Carey Mulligan
Number twenty
Trinny Woodall
Number twenty- one
Amanda Harlech
Number twenty- two
Andrea Delall
Number twenty -three
Ayoka Comte
Number twenty-four
Kelly Osbourne
Number twenty-five
Adele
Number twenty-six
Carole Bamford
Number twenty-seven
Sienna Miller
Number twenty-eight
Elaine Lassmann
Best dressed lists are often kissing clients lists. It is difficult for Vogue to be without bias, or any other magazine. You have to consider too many things, and ordinary people with style don't get noticed. I have tried to not do this. This is my personal list, with my ideals and does not represent the chaos in the celebrity stable. I like women who are creative with their wardrobe, face and hair. For instance in London really the best dressed should go to Elaine Lassmann who is discreet and hidden away. She dresses with style and panache every day. No one sees her. Then there are the women who are very much in the public eye who are given clothes and stylists and this is not fair either. I like Daphne Guinness because she is forever re inventing herself. I like the simplicity of Lynn Wyatt who at the Oscars I thought was the best dressed. Ayoka Comte who makes her own clothes and shoes. Victoria Beckham who has created some wonderful chic simple dresses, her own style perfect. Amanda Harlech Karl Lagerfeld's muse, has stood the test of time, and Adele who surely is the prettiest and best dressed round woman in the world? Everybody on this list I admire. Nobody bribes me with a handbag or shoes so it comes from the heart.
After this terrible week for Japan, and all the people in the country please donate time and energy to help them if you can. The Japanese obviously don't require cash but they do require expertise in tricky areas that may happen to us one day. My soul goes out to them and so I thought I would add light relief on what might be the worst week in the history of the world. Nostradamus could be right?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)