#Czech Republic #Prague #Pirelli Calendar #Sølve Sundsbø #nature photography

The 2026 Pirelli Calendar: A Visual Journey into Nature and Humanity

The highly anticipated 2026 Pirelli Calendar has officially been unveiled in a mesmerizing ceremony at the Municipal House, located in the beautiful city of Prague. This year’s edition, created by the renowned Norwegian photographer and director Sølve Sundsbø, exceeds traditional boundaries, encouraging viewers to contemplate the intricate relationship between human beings and nature.

This edition marks the 52nd iteration of what is affectionately known as 'The Cal™.' In a departure from earlier themes, Sundsbø boldly explores deeper symbolic representations of the natural world. His models embody various elements—earth, air, fire, and water—while also depicting more abstract forces such as energy and light. As Sundsbø described, “My goal was to transcend the literal portrayal of the four basic elements. I aimed to evoke emotions and instincts that resonate with the human experience. Themes like the thirst for knowledge, passion, and our connection to nature are at the forefront of this work.”

A Creative Process Rooted in Nature

Sundsbø embarked on his creative journey in April, capturing breathtaking scenes at Holkham Beach in Norfolk and the lush countryside of Essex. The photographs merge natural landscapes with Sundsbø's passion for technology, utilizing massive LED screens to recreate stunning backdrops—such as dramatic sunsets and turbulent skies—that set the stage for his diverse cast of protagonists.

His choice of subjects reflects a desire to bring mature women into the spotlight—individuals with a rich history in their respective fields, ranging from film and fashion to music and sports. He reflects, “I wanted to highlight women whose depth and experiences resonate with me. Some I had long admired and wished to capture anew, while others were figures I had previously portrayed but wanted to revisit with fresh insight.”

An Illuminating Line-Up of Protagonists

The Calendar intricately weaves together a compelling montage featuring 11 captivating women from various creative backgrounds. Among these extraordinary figures are:

• - Tilda Swinton: The celebrated Scottish actress known for her unconventional roles and striking presence.
• - Gwendoline Christie: Best known for her roles in Game of Thrones and Star Wars, Christie's commanding performances have made her a favorite among fans.
• - FKA twigs: The innovative British singer-songwriter captivates audiences with her boundary-defying music and performances.
• - Isabella Rossellini: An iconic figure in both film and fashion, she represents a beautiful blend of talent and grace.
• - Venus Williams: The legendary American tennis champion has not only excelled in her sport but has also become a symbol of empowerment.
• - Susie Cave: A British fashion designer and model who reigns as a muse from the past, having been previously featured in Pirelli Calendars.
• - Luisa Ranieri: The talented Italian actress brings her unique charm to this prestigious project.
• - Irina Shayk: The Russian-born model continues to make waves in the global fashion industry.
• - Du Juan: A Chinese model and actress, renowned for her versatility and dynamic presence.
• - Eva Herzigová: The Czech model adds to the allure of the Calendar, with a rich history of modeling.
• - Adria Arjona: A rising star from Puerto Rico, Arjona rounds out the impressive list of models featured.

These stunning portraits, totaling 22 in all, do not just showcase beauty; they invite viewers to contemplate the complex dynamics of existence. Sundsbø’s lens captures unique emotions and physicalities, presenting each woman as a dynamic representation of the natural elements.

A Visual Feast with a Deeper Message

Beyond the aesthetic allure of the images, the 2026 Pirelli Calendar encourages reflection about our connections to the earth and to each other. As Sundsbø puts it, this edition aims to connect humanity to its origins and incites a sense of curiosity, passion, and reverence toward our natural world. With ambitious themes and symbolic narratives, the Calendar emerges as a powerful art piece, poised to captivate audiences around the globe.

For those looking to explore this visual journey, high-resolution photos are available for press download on the official Pirelli website. You can access them with the login credentials provided in the press release.

In conclusion, the 2026 Pirelli Calendar stands as a testament to the intersection of art, nature, and the human spirit, redefining how we perceive and engage with the world around us.