2020 is already shaping up to be a year for the history books.
In times like these, when the problems facing our world seem insurmountable, it’s important to lift up the voices of those who advocate for change. We must turn to the brave few who swim against the current, pushing for equality while bringing out the world’s natural splendour. Our #PeopleWithVoices issue honours those who do just that.
Although we have been discussing an issue like #PeopleWithVoices for some time, our decision to actually go through with it now feels oddly prescient. Needless to say, this age is a turbulent one; climate change ravages much of the world, war continues unfettered and the recent spread of COVID-19 will bring aftershocks that we will undoubtedly feel for years.
As a magazine, we are not immune from these shake-ups. Thankfully, our exposure to the virus’ recent spread has been limited to working from home and a series of cancelled photoshoots and interviews — stumbling blocks to be sure, but nothing we couldn’t overcome.
Because at its core, Schön! is a celebration of beauty. For our #PeopleWithVoices issue, we’re intent on sharing even more of that beauty with the world, while raising the voices of those fighting to keep our planet wild, weird and, naturally, Schön! After switching distribution exclusively to Amazon in an effort to be more sustainable, Schön! 38 reaffirms our commitment to going green; with all issues being printed on FSC certified paper from responsible resources.
Our cover star, American singer and budding LGBTQ+ icon King Princess, is a perfect embodiment of this idea. In our interview, we discuss deconstructing gender norms and being supportive of young artists — two things our world so desperately needs. We continue this theme with Lolo Zouaï, who talks about her upcoming tour with Dua Lipa and her relationship withTOMMY JEANS. We also discuss humanitarianism and rap music with footballer and musician Memphis Depay. Finally, 5 Seconds of Summer offer us a behind-the-scenes look at their new album.
Moving on to film and television, international television stars and close friends Milena Tscharntke and Maximilian Mundt give us their take on keeping things fresh in the acting world today. As a talented photographer in his own right, Maximilian shot Milena’s full editorial, where she can be found dressed head to toe in CHANEL. Another film and television star we’re proud to count in this issue’s ranks is Michiel Huisman, who details his new HBO Max project The Flight Attendant, his upcoming film The Other Lamb and his work with charities like Save The Children.
We then move on to the people carving their own paths in this new media landscape. Seth Phillips, otherwise known as Dude With Sign, shows us how to harness the power of the Internet to send a message. Miss Fame then gives us a lesson in originality and broadening your reach. Lastly, S.R. Sharp from the Tom of Finland Foundation teaches us the history of subversion and what can be learned from it in the year 2020. We also team up with BMW Motorrad to showcase the future of conscious, eco-friendly, and electric mobility.
Naturally, the fashion industry has its share of trailblazers whom we’d be remiss not to celebrate. Diana Verde Nieto keeps labels sustainable and honest with her work at Positive Luxury. Marina Testino fights overbuying and overproduction through her clever use of social media. Ninette Murk bridges activism and fashion through her charity Designers Against AIDS, and polette is shaking up the eyewear industry with its democratic design.
However, #PeopleWithVoices is not merely a celebration — it’s a call to action. Our appreciation for these game-changers inspires us to be game-changers ourselves, going out into the world to shed light on the issues plaguing our society, while highlighting the near-endless beauty that surrounds us.
This is a call to make your voice heard. We’ll be listening.
