What It’s Like to Photograph Naomi Campbell and Teyana Taylor For the Pirelli Calendar
September 11, 2023 at 09:31PM
The 2024 Pirelli calendar focuses on the idea of timelessness and stars iconic figures such as Naomi Campbell, Angela Bassett, Idris Elba, Teyana Taylor, Amanda Gorman, and, most significantly, King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. The year marks the 25th anniversary of the Ashanti Kingdom, and the King’s image reflects the celebration of his reign. With all photos taken by artist Prince Gyasi in London and Ghana, Gyasi’s hometown, each shoot grew increasingly exciting for him – especially since he looks up to so many of the celebrities he worked with on set, some of whom are old friends. As a self-taught visual artist who shot his first photographs on an old iPhone at 16, Gyasi’s signature work is personal, powerful, and revolves around the idea of community. His unique aesthetic is described as a “journey into color,” and he’s worked with impactful brands and publications like Balmain, Converse, GQ, and Vanity Fair.
When Gyasi talked to POPSUGAR about the Pirelli experience, he explained that he settled on a theme for the renowned calendar by looking within himself. “I used to look up to these people. I can never deny the fact that they helped me take out the roof above me and escape any limitations,” he said, continuing, “When I approached this, I was thinking about people who defy time, like basically those who don’t exist in time, because they are timeless. They have this God-given gift that they’re able to maneuver through this earth at a different speed. You would think that they’re not normal human beings, but they are because of the consistency, hard work, determination, and passion they have for what they do. That’s why they are where they are.”
Ahead, Gyasi dives into specific instances of camaraderie he experienced on set and discusses his own bucket list for his career. Enjoy behind-the-scenes photos from the 2024 Pirelli shoot as you read about Gyasi’s perspective on the project and wait patiently for the official imagery to launch ahead of the new calendar year.
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Author Sarah Wasilak | citywomen.co
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