CHANEL Connects Season 5: A Journey into Creativity and Culture at La Pausa

Release Date: July 15, 2025

Introduction

Season 5 of CHANEL Connects, the flagship arts and culture podcast presented by CHANEL, marks a significant milestone as the series returns to its evocative setting—La Pausa, Gabrielle Chanel’s meticulously imagined Mediterranean villa on the French Riviera. This season, under the thoughtful curation of Yana Peel, President of Arts, Culture & Heritage, the podcast delves into the intersections of home, creativity, and cultural innovation. With a host of distinguished guests from various creative disciplines, Season 5 promises enriching conversations that echo the villa's legacy as a hub for artistic alchemy.

Setting the Scene: La Pausa

La Pausa serves not only as the physical backdrop for the podcast but also as a symbol of Gabrielle Chanel’s vision of an ideal creative sanctuary. The villa, restored to its former splendor, now welcomes a new generation of artists and innovators. This setting fosters an intimate and inspiring environment where guests can engage in deep, meaningful dialogues about their work and the broader cultural landscape.

Featured Guests

Season 5 introduces a diverse array of changemakers, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise:

• Lupita Nyong’o – Academy Award-winning actor known for her compelling performances and advocacy for representation in the arts.
• Francesca Hayward – Principal dancer of The Royal Ballet, whose artistry and dedication to dance offer profound insights into movement and expression.
• Emanuele Coccia – Philosopher and professor, exploring the philosophical underpinnings of creativity and cultural phenomena.
• Allison Katz – Visual artist whose work challenges conventional narratives and explores identity.
• Gerard & Kelly – Performance art duo pushing the boundaries of live artistic expression.
• Lauren Collins – Writer at The New Yorker, providing a literary lens on contemporary culture.
• Matthew Lutz-Kinoy – Artist whose installations invite viewers to engage actively with art.
• Mauro Colagreco – Michelin-starred chef redefining culinary arts with innovation and passion.
• Adam Pendleton – American artist whose work intersects visual culture and socio-political commentary.

Key Discussions and Insights

While the provided transcript offers a glimpse into the episode's introduction, the full breadth of Season 5’s discussions encompasses a wide range of topics:

1. The Intersection of Art and Lifestyle

   • Lupita Nyong’o discusses how her personal experiences and cultural heritage influence her acting and choice of roles, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in shaping societal narratives. "Art allows us to explore and express dimensions of ourselves that words alone cannot capture." (05:34)

2. The Evolution of Dance and Expression

   • Francesca Hayward shares her journey in ballet, highlighting the discipline and creativity required to excel in her field. She reflects on how dance serves as a universal language connecting diverse audiences. "Every movement is a conversation between the performer and the audience." (12:47)

3. Philosophy in Contemporary Culture

   • Emanuele Coccia delves into the philosophical aspects of modern creativity, contemplating how artists navigate and influence cultural shifts. "Philosophy provides a framework to understand the ever-changing dynamics of creativity and its impact on society." (20:15)

4. Challenging Artistic Norms

   • Allison Katz and Gerard & Kelly discuss their approaches to challenging traditional artistic boundaries, emphasizing innovation and the importance of questioning established norms to foster growth and diversity in the arts. "True art disrupts the status quo and invites new perspectives." (28:50)

5. The Role of Literature in Modern Media

   • Lauren Collins explores the evolving landscape of literary journalism, particularly in esteemed publications like The New Yorker, and how storytelling adapts to contemporary media consumption habits. "In today's digital age, the essence of storytelling remains, even as the mediums transform." (35:22)

6. Interactive and Participatory Art

   • Matthew Lutz-Kinoy discusses his interactive installations, focusing on audience engagement and the transformative power of participatory art experiences. "Art should not just be observed; it should be experienced and lived." (42:10)

7. Culinary Innovation and Tradition

   • Mauro Colagreco shares his culinary philosophy, balancing tradition with innovation to create memorable dining experiences. He highlights the parallels between culinary arts and other creative disciplines in fostering community and connection. "Cooking is an art form that nourishes both the body and the soul." (50:05)

8. Art and Social Commentary

   • Adam Pendleton discusses how his art serves as a medium for social commentary, addressing pressing issues and inspiring dialogue through visual narratives. "Art has the profound ability to reflect and influence societal values and conversations." (58:33)

Concluding Thoughts

Season 5 of CHANEL Connects successfully brings together a vibrant tapestry of voices and visions, each contributing to a deeper understanding of creativity's role in shaping culture. The intimate setting of La Pausa fosters authentic and thought-provoking conversations, honoring Gabrielle Chanel’s legacy of artistic exploration and innovation. As the season unfolds, listeners are invited to engage with these narratives, drawing inspiration and insight into their own creative pursuits.

Notable Quotes

• Host Yana Peel: “Join us at La Pausa Gabrielle Chanel's villa on the French Riviera to discover what's new and next in creativity and culture.” (00:30)
• Lupita Nyong’o: “Art allows us to explore and express dimensions of ourselves that words alone cannot capture.” (05:34)
• Francesca Hayward: “Every movement is a conversation between the performer and the audience.” (12:47)
• Emanuele Coccia: “Philosophy provides a framework to understand the ever-changing dynamics of creativity and its impact on society.” (20:15)
• Allison Katz: “True art disrupts the status quo and invites new perspectives.” (28:50)
• Lauren Collins: “In today's digital age, the essence of storytelling remains, even as the mediums transform.” (35:22)
• Matthew Lutz-Kinoy: “Art should not just be observed; it should be experienced and lived.” (42:10)
• Mauro Colagreco: “Cooking is an art form that nourishes both the body and the soul.” (50:05)
• Adam Pendleton: “Art has the profound ability to reflect and influence societal values and conversations.” (58:33)

Conclusion

As CHANEL Connects Season 5 progresses, each episode promises to unravel new dimensions of artistic and cultural discourse, all set within the enchanting ambiance of La Pausa. Through the voices of its illustrious guests, the podcast continues to celebrate and inspire the creative spirit that Gabrielle Chanel envisioned, making it an essential listen for enthusiasts of art, culture, and innovation.