Color Crush 04:
John MacConnell on Mercury

Photos by David & Kevin

The Color Crush Project: BURKELMAN asked fans of the brand who we admire, and who also have an intriguing and distinct color aesthetic, to reveal their Velvetone Color Crush – that is, which color turns them on, titillates their senses, soothes their psyche, or just makes them happy?


John MacConnell, reveals his Velvetone Color Crush.

– Mercury –

“Color speaks to me and gives direction. Slow down. Relax. Look here. Wake up!”

How do you use color to express yourself?
I love black and white and everything in between. You don’t need anything else to be sophisticated, edgy, or BOLD and the colors are always incredibly chic.

How does color affect you?
Color speaks to me and gives direction. Slow down. Relax. Look here. Wake up! These conversations with color have the ability to calm, delight, or exhaust me. For that reason, I use color very carefully. 

“I aim to make work that is classic, timeless, and modern. I use a color palette that reflects that. “

How do you think about color in regards to your work?
I aim to make work that is classic, timeless, and modern. I use a color palette that reflects that. The subject matters that I cover the body and the earth are, of course, mostly natural tones or black and white.

What’s a work of art or media where color impacted or inspired you?
The Classic sculpture of Greece and Italy and black and white photography from any time have greatly inspired me. They both exude strength and a stillness that I find beautiful and powerful. 

And why are you crushing on our Mercury in particular?
The Mercury Velvetone pillows are, simply put, just a beautiful color. The tone is so warm, inviting, and calming. I find neutrals to be classic and timeless. Black, white, greys, and earthy tones give me a sense of peace. During the day we are bombarded by images and video. I love coming home to a space that has intentional moments of quiet and stillness. Having a break for my eyes allows me to appreciate the art on the walls. 

“During the day we are bombarded by images and video. I love coming home to a space that has intentional moments of quiet and stillness.”

Standard-Size Mercury Velvetone Pillow>>