April 21, 2026 |
For pre-fall 2026, Valentino turned to American painter Cy Twombly for inspiration. The artist, known for his expressive, gestural pieces, purchased a palazzo in the historic Italian village of Teverina in 1975 to act as his creative laboratory. Sharing it with close collaborators only, the space was where Twombly produced some of his most recognisable work, with lots still living there. It’s this palazzo, doubling as a time capsule that holds the memories of one of the 20th century’s most influential artists, that becomes the stage for the Italian house’s campaign. Starring Grammy-nominated singer and brand ambassador Sombr alongside model Apolline Rocco Fohrer, the images have been lensed by Johnny Dufort and styled by Jonathan Kaye.
Informed by a shoot by Henry Clarke from 1968, where Valentino Garavani’s collection was shot in Twombly’s Roman home, the project aims to explore how the house continues to transform over time. It’s referential, but not obvious and tired. By heading back to another of Twombly’s spaces, creative director Alessandro Michele pays homage to history, without being stuck in the past. The garments sport recognisable codes from Michele’s tenure at the top of the house – rich velvets, two-toned lace and silhouettes that reframe vintage shapes for the contemporary buyer. A multimedia project that spans image and video, the campaign sees the models disrupt the relatively sparse palazzo landscape with their movement and the colours of their clothes. Their scene partner? Twombly’s characterful sculptures – each one reminding onlookers that identity isn’t fixed, it morphs and changes as time unfolds.
Photography by Johnny Dufort.
