The highly anticipated 52nd edition of the Pirelli Calendar is poised to redefine its legacy through a groundbreaking artistic vision. Renowned photographer Sølve Sundsbo takes the helm, crafting a collection that moves beyond mere aesthetics to capture the intricate tapestry of human experience. Sundsbo's approach, described as an exploration of fundamental emotions and instincts, encompasses desires for liberty, intellectual curiosity, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. This ambitious undertaking, shot in diverse locales from Norfolk to New York City, features an illustrious cast including Tilda Swinton, Gwendoline Christie, Irina Shayk, FKA Twigs, Venus Williams, Eva Herzigová, Susie Cave, Adria Arjona, Du Juan, Luisa Ranieri, and Isabella Rossellini. The calendar endeavors to forge a profound connection between the viewer and humanity's deeper origins, emphasizing imagination, passion, emancipation, and our intrinsic bond with nature, all while considering the vastness of time and space.
Sundsbo, a Norwegian fashion photographer celebrated for his fantastical and otherworldly imagery, masterfully combines contemporary and traditional techniques, from advanced 3D scanning to meticulous hand-painted retouching. His unique ability to manipulate reality to convey his artistic intent has previously graced the pages of Vogue Italia, cementing his reputation as a visionary. The production of this year's calendar also boasts an all-star creative team, including leading hairstylists Syd Hayes, Ali Pirzadeh, and Bob Recine, alongside acclaimed makeup artists Val Garland and James Kaliardos, with Jerry Stafford providing the styling. This collaborative effort ensures a harmonious blend of talent, elevating the calendar's artistic merit.
Since its inception in 1964, the Pirelli Calendar has been a barometer of cultural shifts, with each photographer ushering in new eras. Notably, Annie Leibovitz's 2016 edition showcased women from all walks of life, challenging conventional beauty norms, while the 2025 calendar, lensed by Ethan James Green, marked a return to the project's more sensual roots. As the full collection of images is awaited, tantalizing behind-the-scenes glimpses reveal a world of dramatic dynamism: models immersed in underwater scenes, ethereal pastoral forests, and captivating smoldering backdrops. These glimpses hint at the evocative narratives within, such as Venus Williams reclining before leaping flames, Isabella Rossellini framed by vibrant pink blossoms, and Irina Shayk commanding the wind machine for a breathtaking shot. These previews promise a calendar that is not only visually stunning but also rich in narrative and emotional depth.
The 2026 Pirelli Calendar stands as a testament to the power of artistic collaboration and the timeless pursuit of capturing the human spirit. Through innovative photography and a diverse array of influential personalities, the calendar celebrates individuality and redefines beauty in its most authentic forms. This edition reminds us that true artistry transcends fleeting trends, finding inspiration in the enduring qualities of courage, curiosity, and the boundless capacity for human connection. It serves as an uplifting symbol of creativity and self-expression, encouraging us to embrace the rich tapestry of life with an open heart and an imaginative mind.