“Grace -N- Grit “~ Michael Longo & Friends Group Exhibition

“Grace -N- Grit” Exhibition Honors the Legacy of Michael Longo: Artist & Friend

In a tribute to one of its most cherished family members, Parlor Gallery presents “Grace -N- Grit,” an exhibition celebrating the extraordinary life and work of Michael Longo.
Opening Saturday, October 26th, from 6-10 PM, this intimate showcase brings together Longo’s previously unseen works alongside pieces by 18 artists who shared his creative journey, perspective and friendship.

Michael Longo, who passed away in April 2024, known for his masterful paintings as much as his magnetic personality at Bond Street Bar, Longo lived his life as an artwork in itself – full of beautiful contradictions. “He would tuck a small, delicate flower behind his ear while bartending, and simultaneously curse and possibly throw someone out for their bad behavior. These contradictions were endless and wonderful, teaching us to accept all sides of ourselves.” -Jill Ricci (his partner in love and life)
Michael embodied grace in its truest forms – both as a presence that honored every space he entered and as an expression of elegant, courteous goodwill. Paired with his remarkable grit – that unwavering courage and strength of character – these qualities defined him, shining brightest even during his illness.
He had many passions aside from visual art, and he imbued all of them with the same attention, care and adoration. Life as Art. Even during his battle with Stage 4 cancer, Longo’s creative spirit never dimmed. When traditional oil paints became too toxic, he adapted, turning to gouache and watercolor. When neuropathy made his hands nearly unusable, he continued creating in whatever way he could.

“Michael’s development as an artist and person was inspiring. He spent every available moment drawing, painting, working on his cars and trucks, cooking and learning. He kept some of these passions close to his heart, but when he shared them, they never failed to impress. Whichever version of Michael you knew or talents he shared with you, he somehow made you feel important for it. Full of compassion, creativity, emotion, humor, elegance and vitriol, he focused it into his body of work that is over-whelming, awe-inspiring and beautiful.” ~ Pat James Longo

“Mike was a true creative to his core,” says Parlor Gallery’s Jenn Hampton. “Even though he has physically left us, his imprint on Asbury Park and our community will remain. This is the true gift of a Creative: that through their Art and actions, they become immortal.”

Featured artists joining this special exhibition include:
Pat James Longo
Meghan McAleavy
Sara Stadtmiller
Matt Crabe
Neil O’Brien
Porkchop
Robert Leecock
Jennifer DiZelfalo
Puddin Aylward
Rob Santello
Robert Ryan
Erica Vermilyea
Kristen Vermilyea
Tim Cronin
Sandy Gaestel
Mike Shine
Jason Stumpf
Gary Mellon

“Grit -N- Grace” opens Saturday, October 26th. The reception and celebration is from 6-10pm and free and open to the public.

Parlor Gallery is located at 717 Cookman Avenue, (on the Arts Bloc) Asbury Park, NJ.

For inquiries about the exhibition or artwork and to be added to the Collector Preview, please contact jill@parlor-gallery.com or juicyjenn@parlor-gallery.com.