Pirelli Calendar 2023: Surreal and Feminist by Emma Summerton

The 49th Pirelli Calendar, titled "Love Letters to the Muse," was unveiled, created by Australian photographer Emma Summerton. It features 14 women as modern muses representing archetypes like the Seer, the Photographer, the Queen, the Tech Expert, the Painter, the Athlete, the Writer, the Performer, the Imp, the Musician, the Storyteller, the Wise Woman, the Dream Hunter, and the Activist. Models include Emily Ratajkowski (Writer), Ashley Graham (Activist), Sasha Pivovarova (Painter), Guinevere Van Seenus (Photographer), Precious Lee, and Lauren Wasser (Athlete). Summerton is the fifth woman to photograph the calendar, following Sarah Moon, Joyce Tenneson, Inez van Lamsweerde, and Annie Leibovitz (twice). The shoot took place in London and New York, inspired by artists Vali Myers and Leonora Carrington, aligning with the Biennale theme "The Milk of Dreams." Summerton emphasized imagination as a tool to escape information overload and highlight real people changing the world. Ashley Graham called the calendar a stepping stone for body diversity, while Precious Lee noted progress in the fashion industry. Lauren Wasser, known as "girl with the golden legs," portrayed the Athlete inspired by Joan of Arc and Tarot, expressing resilience. The calendar is a surreal, feminist tribute to women.