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CIRCUS MAXIMUS 5-21-23
A red-eye flight from New York to Rome to photograph Bruce Springsteen at Circus Maximus unites two lifelong friends who find inspiration amongst ancient ruins to launch a brand designed to celebrate the creative process and the journey they've shared since childhood.
THE STORY STARTS IN HIGH SCHOOL
Matthew Carasella and Jake Clemons have been friends since the day they met in Sociology class in a Virginia Beach high school. It sparked a connection that led to a life of shared experiences. Both would go on to careers in the arts. Matthew a professional photographer in New York City, shooting brands such as The Whitney Museum, The Brooklyn Museum, Waterford Crystal, Hermes and Target. And Jake, a professional musician touring with his own rock band, The Jake Clemons Band as well as playing Saxophone in the legendary Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band.
THE DAY LIGHTNING STRUCK
Matthew wasn’t able to sleep even though it was the middle of the night. He was taking a red-eye flight from New York to Rome, on the verge of one of the biggest photography opportunities of his career, but also on the verge of so much more. He was hired as the official photographer for Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band’s upcoming performance at the historic Circus Maximus venue. As someone who is passionate about music, especially Rock n’ Roll, it was a powerful moment, but that wasn't on the top of his mind. He was more concerned with the diamond ring he carried in his pocket. It was meant for his partner Helen sitting next to him, as they hoped to start a family together. His plan? Photograph the historic concert, and then propose to Helen amongst the ancient Roman ruins. And almost as if it was fate, the concert was scheduled for May 21, his 42nd birthday. As the plane made its way across the Atlantic, Matthew contemplated the life ahead. He wrote a simple intention in his diary, “To become the greatest Roc Father there ever was.” It was his Lightning Bolt Moment. Roc Father was born Circus Maximus 5-21-23. A special date that is commemorated on every Roc Father T-shirt. Almost exactly one year later, on 5-31-24 his son was born.
BUILDING A BRAND WITH INTENTION
Over the many years since Sociology class, Matthew and Jake remained close, often collaborating on creative projects. So when Matthew introduced his idea for Roc Father, Jake immediately connected with the brand's potential and felt a life-giving energy behind it. Especially now that they share life's most difficult creative challenge...raising children. Together, they are working to build a brand with intention-- to inspire and celebrate the creative process. The logo is more than just a brand mark, it’s a symbol we call our Bolt of Inspiration. Creativity can strike at any moment and our Lighting Bolt represents the spontaneity of inspiration. And when it strikes, it changes everything. Nothing can ever be the same again. We feel it, we know it and must create. That is why Roc Father is made to inspire.
CELEBRATING CREATIVE INSPIRATION
Our hope is to inspire new creative expression. We want to celebrate the moments when inspiration strikes and capture it. We tell our story in the hopes it connects with those who share our love for the arts and creativity. We want to hear your story. What was your Bolt of Inspiration? What has it led you to create? Please reach out and tell us when inspiration struck. Let’s create something together.