As is tradition, the Pirelli Calendar strives to surpass itself every year, giving new meaning to its protagonists and to fashion photography.
For the 2026 edition of the Calendar, photographer Sølve Sundsbø was chosen. He decided to go beyond portraiture, transforming the images into a journey through universal emotions, with a theatrical and majestic aesthetic.
The Norwegian fashion photographer is known for his fantastical, otherworldly images and his use of modern, analog techniques, ranging from 3D scanning to hand-retouching. In the past, he has photographed celebrities such as Swinton, Cate Blanchett, and Zendaya.
“For the 2026 Calendar, I want to capture emotions, instincts and states of mind that’s central to human life so: longing for freedom, curiosity, thirst of knowledge, I guess you can call it. Some kind of mystery, imagination, passions, the desire for emancipation, the connection with nature and our relationship with time and space. It’s a way of connecting us to something that we come from. Very big issues, but you know, let’s try to be ambitious,” says Sundsbo of his inspiration.
A concept that aims to strike a deep chord, with images that transcend mere aesthetics.
Representing this idea is a roster of personalities and talents of all kinds. Twelve protagonists, including actresses, models, musicians, and sports icons: Adria Arjona, Susie Cave, Gwendoline Christie, Eva Herzigova, Du Juan, Luisa Ranieri, Isabella Rossellini, Irina Shayk, Tilda Swinton, FKA Twigs, and Venus Williams.
Pirelli’s ambitious photography project for 2026 included three different locations. The shoot took place in three phases: April 16 and 17 in Norfolk and Essex, June 4-7 at the ARRI Stage in London, and July 10 at Spring Studios in New York.
Sundsbø’s vision is supported by a huge team starting from the stylist Jerry Stafford to internationally renowned hair stylists and makeup artists such as Syd Hayes, Ali Pirzadeh, Bob Recine, Val Garland, and James Kaliardos. Set design is by Robbie Doig, while casting is by Piergiorgio Del Moro.
Although few official images have been circulating so far, the 2026 Pirelli Calendar is already shaping up to be a success with a magnetic and timeless appeal.
