NEW YORK, NY. (Recording Academy) - Highly innovative photographer
David LaChapelle was selected to create the official artwork for the 48th Annual GRAMMYV Awards, it was announced today by The Recording AcademyV. His unique and vibrant work was unveiled at the press conference announcing the nominations for the upcoming ceremony. The vibrant photograph, which depicts a soulful and energetic scene of celebration and music, will be used as the official image for the world's premier music event and will grace the cover of the 48th Annual GRAMMY Awards program book and promotional poster. The 48th Annual GRAMMY Awards will be held on Feb. 8, 2006, at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and will be broadcast live on the CBS Television Network at 8 p.m. (ET/PT).
"From album covers to publicity shots, photography has long played a major role in the music industry. The Academy is proud to have an artist of David LaChapelle's caliber and passion involved in the 48th GRAMMY Awards," said Recording Academy President Neil Portnow. "LaChapelle's colorful and energetic work communicates the power of music and the immediate and individual connection it has with people - truly capturing what the GRAMMYs are all about: celebrating music."
Recently ranked among the top 10 most important people in photography in the world by American Photo, David LaChapelle's unique images have graced the covers of such publications as Vanity Fair, Rolling Stone, Vibe, and Italian Vogue. His dedication to originality is recognized in the world of fashion, film and advertising. LaChapelle has been able to bring his love of music to his work, shooting numerous album covers and packages for artists including Macy Gray, Elton John, Lil' Kim, Madonna, and No Doubt. In addition to photography, LaChapelle has shot music videos for Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Lopez, Moby, and the Vines among many others and last year he directed his first critically acclaimed feature-length film, RIZE.
LaChapelle trained as a fine artist at North Carolina School of the Arts before moving to New York City where he enrolled in both the Art Student League and the School of Visual Arts. He began his professional career when Andy Warhol offered him his first job shooting for Interview magazine and since then has garnered numerous awards. His photographs have been showcased in exhibitions and galleries throughout the world, including in London, New York, Austria, and Germany.
Established in 1957, the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, Inc., also known as The Recording Academy, is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards, The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs - including the creation of the national public education campaign What's The Download (www.WhatsTheDownload.com). For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com.
