Hennessy Very Special teams up with Graffiti Artist JonOne to Produce Live Painting
Harking from New York’s Harlem neighbourhood, artist JonOne – born John Andrew Perello – has been working on graffiti since he was 17. Now a Paris resident, he has a prolific thirty-year career behind him, during which he redefined graffiti art. After moving to the French capital in 1987, he became part of the frontrunners in the street-art genre, breaking down frontiers and borders. Fast-forward to 2017, JonOne has become a hallmark in the craft, with countless shows under his belt – spanning the globe entirely – and counts a Thalys and a Boeing 777 among his portfolio of designs.
Above all, JonOne has come to define the practice of graffiti as a street-based medium, where the space of the city acts as a canvas for the art created in situ. This month, bringing his iconic style to London, JonOne painted a 6-metre high Hennessy Very Special Limited Edition bottle for an audience of locals, passers-by and street-art aficionados, over two days at Shoreditch’s Box Park.
The Hennessy Very Special Limited Edition bottle, designed by JonOne – which is available exclusively at Selfridges – displays signature accumulations of colour, as a bold palette of splashes layer up to create a one-off design. Unique in its blending as well as its identity, Hennessy joined forces with JonOne as part of a heritage of collaborations with urban artists, a list which includes Scott Campbell, Ryan McGinness and Futura.
A unique expression of only the best and most distinctive eaux-de-vie, Hennessy Very Special’s audacious personality is reflected in JonOne’s design. The parallels between the philosophy behind the creations of JonOne and Hennessy’s approach to crafting excellence are countless. Notably bringing colour to the mix, JonOne expressed the intensity and life contained in the uniqueness of Hennessy Very Special. And, just as JonOne produces energy through incomparable blends of colour, so does Hennessy craft special moments with its Very Special Limited Edition series.
Chloe Slater is a breath of fresh. Raised in Bournemouth and based in Manchester, the 22-year-old singer-songwriter has a distinctly British sound that feels both like a throwback and a glimpse at how Indie Pop is evolving. Shining a light on British talent outside of London, Slater offers a more nostalgic nod to the guitar riffs and British accent-forward melodies of the mid 2000s. She has an undeniable ear for a catchy hook, emotive buildups and diary-like songwriting that pulls you into her world. The young start isn’t afraid to critique society in her writing, too. Her latest EP ‘LOVE ME PLEASE’ is filled with infectious tracks exploring girlhood, love and life, and is well worth listen for its sonic world building. As she sets off on her first festival tour across UK and Europe this month, the rising star chats to Schön! about her come up and curates a playlist.
Hey Chloe, what are you up to right now?
Right now I am waiting for my band to start rehearsals for the Alessi Rose tour! I’m also snacking on chocolate so life is good.
Can you tell us what was the music scene like in your hometown?
I grew up in Bournemouth which doesn’t really have much of a music scene. I also spent my late teens in covid lockdown while living there so I didn’t really get to experience loads of it. Moving to Manchester where the music scene is so huge felt like a dream come true to 18-year-old me.
What artists did you grow up hearing that helped shape the kind of music you make today?
My main influences from a young age have been Arctic Monkeys, Wolf Alice and Sam Fender. I have also loved Paramore [since] forever and Hayley Williams’ solo music.
When did you start making music yourself?
I started writing music when I was 13 but I was always far too shy to show it to anyone. I didn’t end up working with a producer until I was 18 or 19 years old.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard it before?
I would describe my sound as indie rock with sprinkles of pop and punk. It’s outspoken, sometimes satirical and often angry.
Can you share why ‘Love Me Please’ was then perfect title choice for your new EP?
Most of the songs on the EP in one way or another present the idea that all anyone wants and needs is to be loved and accepted for what they are. Whether that be women weighed down by the constraints of their body image in ‘Fig Tree,’ people desperate to hold onto five seconds of fame and attention in “Tiny Screens” or even my own plea for kindness in ‘Imposter.’
What do you think your EP says about your current era?
I think ‘Love Me Please’ shows that my music has evolved to expose a more vulnerable side of myself that I was perhaps nervous to show in ‘You Can’t Put a Price on Fun.’ I’d like to think it represents a more confident era.
We love that your lyrics are very observant about the world we live in. What do you think made you so comfortable exploring social commentary through music?
I think I’ve always loved writing down my thoughts and the things that make me angry. I’ve always found it a lot easier than talking about things like that out loud.
What did you learn the most from your recent UK tour?
It’s definitely important to take care of your voice! I was so afraid of getting a sore throat so I made sure I was super hydrated and did all my warmups. I think it’s important to strive for longevity with touring, especially as live shows are one of my favourite parts of what I get to do. I’m definitely learning the best ways to keep myself going.
Filmmaker. Explorer. Storyteller. If anyone knows how to collect stamps on a passport and leave an impression wherever she goes, it’s Marcia Kimpton. The award-winning filmmaker, author, and creative force behind ‘An American in Amsterdam,’ out May 1st, and the upcoming film ‘An American Abroad’ isn’t just passing through life — she’s chronicling it, questioning it, and turning it into art. With more than 40 accolades to her name and a new travel-meets-film app, ‘Kimpton Travels and Films’, she continues to merge cinematic storytelling with the magic of place.
As the daughter of the legendary Bill Kimpton — founder of the Kimpton Hotels — Marcia has always had an eye for style, soul, and wanderlust. But she’s also carved her own path. Her journey, which she candidly explores in her book ‘Escaping the Hollywood Bardo’, is one of resilience, reinvention, and unshakable self-discovery. Her storytelling style? Unfiltered, deeply human, and hungry for meaning.
For Schön!’s first edition of ‘passport,’ our recurring series which explores the cities, restaurants, museums, and travel anecdotes that have left their mark (or stamp), we sit down with Marcia Kimption to chat about the cities that shaped her and how travel can be the first step toward transformation.
Where is your favourite place to travel to and why?
My favourite place to travel to is the country of France. I have visited so many times, I’ve literally lost count. I’ve been to Paris many times, but I’ve also visited Normandy in the northwest, Strasbourg in the east, Bourgogne in the east-central region, Provence in the southeast, the French Alps in Courchevel, and I bought a place in Vence in 2022 overlooking the Côte d’Azur because I love the French Riviera so much. Every time I return to almost any place in France, I feel like I’m having the best food, the best service, in the most beautiful, chic restaurant, whether looking at art on the wall or the gorgeous Mediterranean, surrounded by incredible historical culture. I’m never disappointed with France, except when it comes to driving. Drivers act like they’re in the Grand Prix (which is on my bucket list to experience in Monaco). So, if I can avoid driving in France, I do — it’s the only downside!
Has there been an exceptional experience — an attraction, a delicious dish, a hotel, or something else — that you still can’t stop thinking about?
Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Cap d’Antibes, France is my dream hotel for elegance, service, food, views, and the epic landscaped grounds. It feels like stepping back into old Hollywood glamour. Everyone in Hollywood — past and present — has stayed at this stunning, historic hotel. Known as the French Riviera Grande Dame, it was originally a writer’s retreat in 1870, renovated and reopened in 1889 for the rich and famous. It was immortalized by F. Scott Fitzgerald in ‘Tender Is the Night’. Having lunch at the Grill, looking at the Île Sainte-Marguerite or Cannes on the Mediterranean while sipping Chablis with grilled artichokes and freshly caught fish, it’s something I dream of repeating.
The other place I must mention is the Gritti Palace in Venice, Italy. Built in 1475 and later the private home of Doge Andrea Gritti, it became a luxury hotel in 1895. I’ve stayed at the legendary Cipriani and the chic Aman hotel, but nothing compares to sipping an Aperol spritz at the Gritti bar at sunset, watching gondolas drift by. It’s magical.
Travelling is such an eye-opening experience, what have you learned about yourself while exploring new places?
I’ve learned that there are so many wonderful people around the world who want to share their culture, art, music, food, and history. I love learning about new places, but what I love most is discovering just how many good people there are in the world. My advice: turn off the news and travel — it will remind you how beautiful the world can be.
What is one of your favourite travel memories?
It’s hard to pick one favourite memory, but a standout is staying at the Mithra Cave Hotel in Cappadocia while filming An American Abroad. I asked the front desk about filming locations, and the general manager, Emre Toybikik, immediately stepped up and showed us around. Within one day, we were booked to film the stunning hot air balloons, a rock-and-roll off-road jeep tour, and wild horses racing by, all thanks to Emre. My cinematographer, Justin McAleece, captured it all beautifully. We had full access to the hotel for filming and were honoured by the mayor afterward for promoting tourism. None of it was pre-planned due to my limited budget, but thanks to the incredible Cappadocians — and especially Emre — it became one of my greatest travel and filmmaking experiences.
One place you’re dying to visit?
I’ve been dying to visit Croatia for a long time. I just found out today that ‘An American Abroad’ got selected for the Croatian International Film Festival and will be screened on August 11 just outside Split. I’m thrilled!
Your new app, ‘Kimpton Travels and Films’, combines your passion for travel and cinema. What do you hope users will take away from it?
I hope users feel they’re getting great value from my curated movie suggestions. I spend a lot of time finding hidden gems in a world full of bad movies. I also hope the app helps travellers discover unique spots in the countries I’ve explored. I love travel and film — so why not bring them together?
Amsterdam holds a special place in your heart—what is it about the city that keeps drawing you back?
Amsterdam is the city I’ve visited more than any other outside of New York and LA. I loved it so much, I became a resident in under two years. Its canals are stunning — like Venice but different — and my apartment overlooked them in the historic golden age district. The Dutch are open, friendly, and speak perfect English, as do most people there from all over the world. It’s a city rich in art, from museums to cafes and galleries. I even bought two affordable paintings from Dutch artist Marthijn de Groot. But my favourite part? Biking everywhere — the bikes rule the city!
‘An American in Amsterdam’ explores love, loss, and adventure — what inspired this story, and how did your personal experiences shape the film?
The film was inspired by my love for Amsterdam, and I wanted the city to feel like a character in itself. The story reflects my friendships with women and was influenced by the British series ‘Absolutely Fabulous’. My friend Shirley Robinson offered to play a lead role — she’s not an actress but she’s hilarious and a natural. We rewrote the script to be funnier and were filming just six weeks later. We laughed daily and had a blast. Acting is harder than people think, especially comedy, and Shirley nailed it. The only time we improvised was during real street interviews. Although the film was shortened due to the pandemic, I’m proud of how it turned out.
You lived in Amsterdam for two years during COVID. How did that experience influence the film’s narrative and tone?
COVID didn’t influence the tone of the film because we finished filming just before the pandemic. However, it did impact the length — we couldn’t return to complete the planned 80 minutes, so the final version is 55 minutes long.
What were some of the biggest challenges in making this film, particularly as an independent filmmaker?
The biggest challenge is always funding, especially as a woman in independent film. We didn’t have enough money — my credit card stopped working and Shirley even paid for our crew lunch party! I was staying at the Kimpton DeWitt hotel trying to figure out how to pay the bill — despite sharing the name, it wasn’t free! Everyone goes over budget, even Oliver Stone, whose memoir I loved. Despite the stress, we got creative, found ways to make it work, and the kindness of the Dutch people made it possible. My location scout, Diederick de Mann, and casting director, Sandra Rake, believed in the project and helped make it happen. I write about all of this in my memoir, ‘Escaping the Hollywood Bardo,’ to inspire other women to direct.
You’re known for pushing boundaries in storytelling. Were there any risks or unconventional choices you made in An American in Amsterdam?
I always push boundaries, and in this film, the biggest risk was approaching real people on the street without offending them — even though Shirley’s character sometimes teased them. We made sure to only include those who signed release forms and avoided anything exploitative like Borat. Our goal was to make people laugh with us, not at them.
You’ve won over 40 awards for your films. What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers trying to break into the industry?
We’ve won six awards so far for ‘An American in Amsterdam’, and over 40 for ‘Bardo Blues,’ now on Amazon. My advice: don’t be discouraged if you don’t get into big festivals like Sundance or Cannes — keep submitting. Find your unique story and keep refining it until it feels complete. Don’t let a lack of funding stop you. If you never take no for an answer, you’ll find people who believe in your vision. Making a film is incredibly hard, but it’s also incredibly rewarding—and I’ll never give up doing it.
top. Cosmic the Oasis
trousers. THEO
boots. Dr. Martens
sunglasses. Oliver Peoples
gloves. Madbike
motorcycle throughout. Suzuki Boulevard
Michael Cimino knows how to navigate both the world of acting and his journey, making all the right moves along the way. After a snowboarding getaway with friends, the actor has returned to Los Angeles — the city he’s called home since moving there at 18 to pursue his passion for acting. Perched with Schön! on a Suzuki motorcycle, the Las Vegas native opens up about his newest project, ‘Until Dawn’.
The horror film, inspired by the popular video game, follows a group of friends caught in an unending time loop where every choice can mean life or death. “We keep dying and coming back to life over and over again until we figure out how to get out of the night and make it until dawn,” Cimino explains. Shot in Budapest, Hungary, the film explores the consequences of decision-making and how choices can significantly alter one’s path. Cimino plays Max, one of the friends trying to unravel the mysterious disappearance of Melanie, who vanished a year prior in the same remote valley. “One thing I really appreciated about Max is his journey throughout the film,” Cimino tells us. “He’s trying to hold together the relationship that he lost and trying to find himself as well. He learns to be more independent and strong, trusting his gut and following his intuition. He kind of goes from a boy to a man.”
From his first acting classes at age eight in a local church to a range of diverse roles, Cimino’s journey has been anything but ordinary. Up next, he’ll star in the series ‘Motorheads’, where he plays Zac, a young man trying to live up to his father’s legendary street-racing legacy. “‘Motorheads’ is a show about firsts. Of course, there’s a racing element to it, but it’s about finding your first love, turning the key to your first car,” Cimino elaborates. “There’s something so relatable about these characters. I’m excited to see how it resonates with people.”
jumper. Pierre Blanc
opposite
shirt. Façonner Atelier
trousers. askyurself
boots. Rombaut
belt throughout. Stylist’s own
jewellery. Michael’s own
jumper. Pierre Blanc
trousers. Strike Oil
jewellery. Sterling Forever
opposite
shirt. Façonner Atelier
trousers. askyurself
jewellery. Michael’s own
jumper. Pierre Blanc
jewellery. Sterling Forever
‘Until Dawn’ is in cinemas now. ‘Motorheads’ will stream on Amazon Prime Video from 20th May.
Above all, JonOne has come to define the practice of graffiti as a street-based medium, where the space of the city acts as a canvas for the art created in situ. This month, bringing his iconic style to London, JonOne painted a 6-metre high Hennessy Very Special Limited Edition bottle for an audience of locals, passers-by and street-art aficionados, over two days at Shoreditch’s Box Park.
