Renowned Norwegian photographer Sølve Sundsbø has been selected to create the prestigious 2026 Pirelli Calendar, bringing his distinctive poetic vision and extraordinary technical expertise to the iconic publication. The celebrated artist, known for his spectacular images that blend conceptual poetry with cutting-edge 3D scanning techniques, has featured prominent figures including Isabella Rossellini, Tilda Swinton, and FKA Twigs in his latest work.
Sundsbø made his approach clear from the outset, stating that traditional fashion photography aesthetics don't align with his artistic vision. "Working with 20-year-old models isn't my thing," the photographer explained, emphasizing his preference for creating meaningful exchanges with his subjects rather than focusing solely on conventional beauty standards.
The photographer's career spans three decades, during which he has consistently transformed magazine shoots and advertising campaigns into complete visual art pieces. His spectacular photographs for luxury brands including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Dior have left an indelible mark on fashion photography history. His work seamlessly merges poetic concepts with advanced technical innovations, creating images that transcend traditional commercial photography boundaries.
Sundsbø has also made significant contributions to the beauty industry through collaborations with major brands like Revlon and L'Oréal. His photographs in this realm are characterized by their sensual yet graphic quality, establishing a unique visual universe where women are never mere accessories to a scene but serve as the active driving force behind the message.
During a recent autumn morning in Milan at the Pirelli offices, Sundsbø was putting the finishing touches on the twelve images that will comprise the 2026 calendar. This latest project represents another milestone in the prestigious edifice carefully built by the Norwegian artist, who maintains a unique balance of being both discreet and famous, humble yet confident, demanding and perfectionist.
The photographer's distinctive approach to his craft has established him as one of the most innovative voices in contemporary photography. His work consistently demonstrates a commitment to respectful collaboration with his models, creating an environment where artistic exchange takes precedence over conventional commercial considerations. This philosophy has become a hallmark of his creative process and contributes to the depth and authenticity of his final images.
The 2026 Pirelli Calendar continues the publication's tradition of featuring world-class photographers who bring their unique artistic vision to the project. Sundsbø's selection reflects the calendar's ongoing commitment to showcasing innovative photography that challenges traditional boundaries while maintaining the highest artistic standards.
