In this episode, we are joined by Rocco Albano, a professional artist and classical art aficionado (plus VP of Customer Experience at Merkle). But in Rocco’s youth – he was PEZ, the infamous Philadelphia Graffiti artist. Today’s episode is the very personal story of Rocco’s evolution - from graffiti artist and high-school drop-out, to contemporary artist and digital experience strategist & consultant. It’s a story of the power of art to transform lives. In Rocco’s case, art was the catalyst helping him heal from childhood trauma, getting him sober (35+ years and counting), propelling him into college and into his successful professional career. During our freewheeling conversation we discuss how "unplanned moments" highlight Rocco’s path through both dark times and light, including a chance encounter with Jane Golden, an American muralist and art educator, who became a significant influence in Rocco's life. We also talk about Rocco's kinship with the artist Caravaggio, and how 'living in interesting times' can create pathways to creativity. Enjoy!
Drinks:
Fresca, Poppi Prebiotic Orange Soda, Starbucks Strawberry Acai Lemonade
Links:
Rocco’s Gallery: https://www.syncgallery.com/albano
Rocco’s artistic journey - https://pezroc.com/vision-of-artist-rocco-albano
Rocco’s Art
The Art of Graffiti - https://pezroc.com/the-art-of-graffiti
Ghost Tag - https://pezroc.com/ghost-tag
Museum in my Backyard - in the Merkle corporate collection: https://pezroc.com/museum-in-my-backyard
Baroque Supernova - https://pezroc.com/baroque-supernova
