Massimo Mezzavilla Interview
Each month, we ask a photographer to picture a Corneliani Identity Jacket on someone, somewhere in the world. These shots were taken in Shanghai by photographer Paula Lingyi Sun, a director and creative born in China and now based in Milan. She has collaborated with international brands, artists and magazines, directing numerous films and creative campaigns – including her first feature film coming out next year. Here, she has photographed her husband, creative director Massimo Mezzavilla, wearing the Corneliani Identity Jacket.
Where did you take these pictures?
Paula Lingyi Sun: «I took these pictures of Massimo, my husband, while in Shanghai over the summer».
Who’s wearing the Identity Jacket?
Paula Lingyi Sun: «My husband, Massimo. We got married a few months ago after many years together and he is my favourite human being».
What was the mood you were trying to convey?
Paula Lingyi Sun: «I wanted to capture the balance between something timeless and the vibrant, modern energy of the city – Shanghai does this very well. Also, Shanghai has the best skyline in the world for me, and it was fun just shooting around the city, wandering without any set destination».
What does this location mean to you?
Paula Lingyi Sun: «Shanghai means so much to me – it’s where I’m from and where some of my closest family still lives. For me, Shanghai is like a bridge connecting my past and present, and its energy always feeds my creativity, shaping how I see the world».
Do you think the images you’ve captured say something about you – or do you try to keep yourself out of the frame?
Paula Lingyi Sun: «It was interesting shooting my husband in Shanghai; it felt like having my past and my future in the same picture. So, I feel like there's definitely part of myself in these images».
What do you like about travelling?
Massimo Mezzavilla: «Travelling offers an incredible opportunity for personal growth, happiness and discovery, far beyond simply visiting new places. The real rewards lie in meeting new people, exploring diverse cultures and trying unfamiliar cuisines, which help foster openness and empathy».
What does your style say about who you are?
Massimo Mezzavilla: «I like to think about my style as timeless elegance with some modern/casual twists».
Do you feel most like yourself when you’re at home or when you’re travelling?
Massimo Mezzavilla: «My home is where my wife is, whether we are visiting a country we have never been to before or binge-watching a TV show on the couch at home».
What’s something unexpected that’s always in your suitcase?
Massimo Mezzavilla: «A nice small bottle of perfume».
How did the Identity Jacket hold up in the field?
Massimo Mezzavilla: «The Identity Jacket is a very versatile piece that fits perfectly into a man's modern wardrobe: it masterfully combines traditional elements of male elegance with more casual details. It made me feel like a million bucks while I was wearing it».
MASSIMO MEZZAVILLA
Massimo Mezzavilla is an Italian art director based in Milan, whose research-based practice takes cues from the world of fashion, art, cinema and the digital world. His international experience spans working alongside Mario Testino in London, serving as in-house art director for Moncler, and collaborating with a variety of global fashion brands and cultural institutions. Guided by his creative passion, Massimo brings a thoughtful touch to every project, shaping work that speaks to the fashion community as well as wider audiences.
