For the Celine Winter 2026 campaign, director and photographer Gus Van Sant returns to his cinematic roots, crafting a hauntingly intimate portrait series that transcends the standard fashion editorial. Under the visionary creative direction of Charles Levai and Kevin Tekinel, the project leans into a raw, introspective aesthetic that channels the soul of mid-century film photography. Each frame serves as a deliberate exploration of form and texture, utilizing 35mm film and distinct analogue techniques to imbue the luxury collection with a tactile, aged quality. The imagery is defined by high-contrast chiaroscuro lighting and experimental processing, featuring intentional film grain and chemical-like overlays that grant the portraits a visceral, almost ephemeral presence. By pairing structured silhouettes with soft, moody architecture, the series captures a sense of timelessness that sits at the intersection of high fashion and avant-garde art. With casting by Samuel Ellis Scheinman, the campaign highlights a diverse ensemble of talent, while nuanced hair styling by Duffy and makeup by Lucia Pieroni add a final layer of disciplined elegance. This collection does not merely present garments; it invites viewers into a quiet, architectural world where every detail—from the leather textures to the organic jewelry—is elevated through a masterful command of analog process, solidifying Celine's position at the vanguard of modern luxury narrative.
