Hennessy has selected Irish artists Maser and Conor Harrington to create its historic Founder’s Edition bottle, celebrating the 300th anniversary of the birth of its Irish founder, Richard Hennessy.
The striking design of this new Hennessy Very Special (VS) Founder’s Edition embodies the enduring influence of the Corkonian who emigrated to Cognac and created the globally iconic Hennessy brand. It is the perfect blend of then and now.
The artists travelled to Cognac, learning of its grape to glass process and meeting those who passionately craft Hennessy VS using the exact recipe which was created almost three centuries ago. Both artists’ work resonates perfectly with the Hennessy VS brand character: vibrant, artistic and street!
Maser is renowned for his colourful art, which captivates with geometric abstractions. His artistic platforms span street murals to interactive installations, and showcase a signature style that merges urban energy with engaging forms. Cork-born Conor Harrington merges classical art with street aesthetics, exploring masculinity and power in modern society through historical motifs and vibrant urban influences. Their work is a homage to their fellow Irishman and bridges the heritage of the Hennessy Maison with street culture. A symbol of Irish pride and achievement, the original artwork will hold pride of place upon the walls of Killavullen, the Cork home of Richard Hennessy after the official launch of the bottle on October 22nd in Dublin.
Talking about his inspiration for the Founder’s Edition bottle, Maser said: “There are so many parallels to this real time project and the historic story of Richard Hennessy. We travelled to Cognac and met the master blender, who explained to us the textures, smells, colours, and gradients to be aware of in order to make the perfect blend. In that moment I saw the elements he spoke about are the same as those we use in our paintings. Paint is our ingredient, we mix it and introduce new blended colours and textures to give our work that rich gradients, depth and uniqueness. The contrast between Conors work and mine is a great example of the perfect blend, similar to the work of the Hennessy cellar masters.”
The resulting vibrant and colourful artwork and bottle design combines the uniquely distinctive styles of the two talented artists in an eye-catching homage to the Hennessy founder. The fusion of Maser’s bold colours and pattern overlays combine perfectly to complement Conor’s portraiture.
Conor commented: “I portrayed Richard striding forward confidently into his new terrain while at the same time glancing around and over his shoulder, always with an eye on his roots and where he has come from. I used Ireland as the main inspiration for the colour palette in his portrait, with the green of his coat and the yellow and gold in the background reminiscent of the Irish tricolour, a palette we are known for the world over. My painterly language is both solid and grounded but at the same time the blurs, swipes and erasure marks evoke a strong sense of time and memory, highlighting the strength of history and heritage that is so unique to the Hennessy brand.”
As a key market, Hennessy celebrates and pays homage to its Irish roots which are a true source of pride and inspiration to immerse itself in the worlds of contemporary culture, art and craftsmanship. Supporting avant-garde art has been a long-standing tradition and today the brand continues that legacy with collaborations in contemporary street culture including with the premier basketball league, the NBA, innovative fashion designer, Kim Jones, hip-hop legend, Nas and many more. Closer to home Hennessy’s collaborations with Ireland’s creatives includes partnerships across street fashion, art & music with the likes of Emporium, Dublin Block Party, the Future of Irish Music & Irelands rap duo Travis & Elzzz.
This Founder’s Limited Edition Bottle has the same bold and fragrant Hennessy V.S liquid. Matured in new oak barrels, it offers toasted and fruit notes, with a rich, clearly defined palate and a welcoming exuberance. This beguiling character is uniquely Hennessy, a timeless choice with an intensity all of its own. The round and robust flavours make it very versatile, and ideal for any cocktail possibility, from classic recipes and sophisticated cocktail creations to easy mixed drinks.
The Hennessy Founder’s Edition (RSP €41) will be available exclusively from SuperValu stores nationwide from September 30th and all other retailers from October 16th.
Slán go fóill.
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