Exhibit of world renowned photographer Mark Weiss and his collaboration with artist Steve Lacy scheduled for November 8, 9 and 11
As part of its collaboration with Brookdale Community College, the Rockit Live Foundation and its broad range of live music education programs and performances will now reside at Brookdale’s Lincroft campus.
“We’re excited about the start of this new chapter in our history,” said Bruce Gallipani, Rockit’s founder. “Brookdale’s role as a gateway for individuals to achieve their personal and professional goals complement our core mission—developing and inspiring young musicians to reach their potential.”
Created in 2004 by Brooklyn-born drummer Gallipani, Rockit aims to provide reinforcement and guidance for young musicians to hone their skills and craft across music genres. Since its inception, Rockit has worked with more than 1,700 young musicians to jumpstart their careers, assist them in continuing their studies at prestigious music colleges and to help them navigate their way through the music business and industry. More than twenty percent of Rockit’s students attend classes tuition-free through Rockit’s scholarship program. Several alumni have gone on to perform with professional artists such as Steven Van Zandt, The Rascals’ Eddie Brigati, Jon Bon Jovi, Deborah Harry and many others. Jacquie Lee starred on NBC TV’s The Voice and has a recording contract with Atlantic Records. FLETCHER is a Top 50 Billboard artist.
“Bruce’s staff of talented instructors, educators and board members have made the difference in so many lives in helping young people along the path toward making their aspirations a reality,” said Brookdale President Dr. David Stout. “Their dedication, mentorship and community focus complement what we do at Brookdale every day across disciplines. I look forward to working with Rockit in our efforts to engage the communities we both serve.”
A public exhibit of world renowned photographer Mark Weiss and his collaboration with artist Steve Lacy who is an anchor on Fox 5 in NYC will take place on Friday, November 8 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, November 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Monday, November 11 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the CVA Gallery on Brookdale’s campus. A portion of the proceeds from the sales will support Rockit’s scholarship fund and creation of a dedicated space on Brookdale’s campus for Rockit’s programs.
Collectively known as Weissguy & Lacy, the photographer and artist blend artistic mediums to create signature, one-of-a-kind screen-printed canvas artworks reminiscent of Andy Warhol’s pop art images, drawing upon Weiss’s vast archives of photos from chronicling the careers of leading rock ‘n’ roll artists.
“I am very excited to donate our art to Brookdale Community College and the Rockit Academy, and I look forward to seeing the expansion and sharing of music education in our community,” said Weiss, a Monmouth County resident. “I am amazed at the talent and professionalism that these young rockers enthusiastically bring to the community, and I am proud to be a part of their team, capturing true rock stars in the making.”
“The very essence of my collaboration with Mark is learning from those who came before you and being generous when it comes to passing on your skills to the next generation,” said Lacy. “That’s what makes our affiliation with Rockit Academy and Brookdale Community College such a perfect fit. We couldn’t be more proud to be associated with both of these organizations.”
Large canvas images of artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, Madonna, Eddie Van Halen, Freddie Mercury, Jerry Garcia, Axl Rose and Slash (Guns N’ Roses), Rick James, Ozzy Osbourne and Keith Richards will be offered for sale, in addition to smaller-sized prints of numerous artists.
Mark and Steve will be at the CVA Gallery on Saturday, November 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to share their stories.
