Chanel

May 2026

The CHANEL Next Prize campaign masterfully bridges the gap between high-fashion prestige and the avant-garde spirit of contemporary artistry. Through a series of carefully composed diptychs, photographer Jeff Henrikson captures the intersection of fine art and individual expression, grounding each subject in a space that feels both personal and curated. With styling by Edward Bowleg III, the portraits lean into editorial minimalism, allowing the distinct personalities of visionaries like Alvaro Urbano, Pol Taburet, Ayoung Kim, and Payal Kapadia to take center stage. The project utilizes natural light to soften the studio environments, creating an intimate dialogue between the artist and their craft. From the lush botanical sketches surrounding Urbano to the surreal, cinematic digital fragments of Kim’s work, the imagery remains cohesive through its restrained typography and balanced layout. By integrating live-action techniques alongside traditional portraiture, the campaign reflects a sophisticated visual language that is synonymous with the brand's heritage. This collaboration serves as an evocative exploration of creative evolution, where the tactile textures of oil paint and leather meet the sleek, futuristic aesthetics of modern cinema. Each frame functions as a nuanced study, ensuring that the focus remains firmly on the diverse artistic contributions celebrated by the prize, successfully positioning Chanel at the heart of the current cultural conversation.

Editorial