Sizzle Arts Team attended the Brooklyn Public Library exhibit tells Jay-Z’s story for hip-hop’s 50th anniversary.
“The Book of HOV” exhibit was created by Roc Nation to celebrate the life and work of Brooklyn native Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter. The exhibit spans the rapper’s iconic career from the Marcy Houses to the Hall of Fame.
The free exhibit is spread throughout two floors of the Central Library.
The “Book of HOV” exhibit, which is located at the Brooklyn Public Library’s Central Library branch at 10 Grand Army Plaza, will remain open until Dec. 4, 2023. “The Book of HOV” exhibit was created by Roc Nation to celebrate the life and work of Brooklyn native Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter
Brooklyn Public Library presented The Book of HOV, an installation created by Roc Nation to celebrate the life and work of Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter. One of Brooklyn’s most influential figures, JAY-Z has shaped and consistently redefined hip-hop, music and culture on a global scale. The Book of HOV featured never-before-seen images, art and ephemera from the artist’s archives, providing an unparalleled look at an extraordinary life and career. This free, immersive experience was one of the only installations of its scope to be housed in an active public space and featured text, audio and curation by Roc Nation teams and partners.
Brooklyn Public Library announced an exhibition titled, The Book of HOV. The installation, which was created by Roc Nation was done to honor and celebrate the life and work of hip-hop’s richest recording artist, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter.
The Book of HOV features photos that have never-before-seen before as well as art and ephemera from the Brooklyn-bred artist’s archives. If you happen to be in the New York City area, you don’t need anything but your presence as admission is free.
, providing an unparalleled look at an extraordinary life and career. This free, immersive experience is one of the only installations of its scope to be housed in an active public space and features text, audio and curation by Roc Nation teams and partners.
The exhibition, which has been curated by Roc Nation teams and partners can be seen on two floors of Central Library, which is located at 10 Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn. To find out more about the exhibition, you can visit thebookofhov.com.
Rolling Stone reported that there was a pre-opening party the night before the exhibition was revealed to the public. “Jigga Man” attended the affair with his wife, Beyonce and family, as well as close friends and associates. Other celebrities and notables included the likes of Big Daddy Kane, Alicia Keys, Questlove, DJ Khaled and more.
Brooklyn Public Library CEO Linda Johnson spoke to Rolling Stone and expressed that the exhibit is a celebration of one of hip-hop’s greatest emcees.
“JAY-Z’s story is a uniquely Brooklyn story, and it’s a privilege to host this exhibit created as a labor of love by Roc Nation and the people who’ve known and worked with him over the years,” she states. “The Book of Hov and the limited-edition library card will attract new visitors to our branches, many of whom may not be familiar with the wide range of services we offer. Patrons can borrow vinyl records, musical instruments, sheet music, and even make their own music or podcast in our recording studio.”
The Brooklyn Public Library has also announced that there will be limited edition releases of 13 different Jay-Z-inspired library cards. Each card represents each of his 13 solo albums. The Library states that anyone who visits different Brooklyn branches can collect all 13 cards starting in August. The cards are now exclusively available at Central Library and Marcy Library (Where Jay-Z grew up).
Sizzle Arts Appreciation Tours
A Program of Sizzle Arts Foundation
Mission:
To ignite a passion for art appreciation by providing immersive experiences that connect individuals with diverse forms of artistic expression. Through curated tours, Sizzle Arts cultivates understanding of cultural heritage, fosters creativity, and inspires lifelong engagement with the arts.
Program Overview:
Sizzle Arts Appreciation Tours offers participants guided visits to museums, galleries, cultural landmarks, and live performances, locally and internationally. Each tour is curated to provide educational content, interactive discussions, and hands-on experiences, enabling participants to explore art’s techniques, histories, and cultural contexts.
Program Impact:
Arts Education: Participants gain knowledge of artistic traditions and contemporary practices, enhancing cultural literacy.
Community Engagement: Tours connect participants with local artists, institutions, and heritage sites, promoting inclusivity and representation.
Creative Inspiration: Exposure to diverse art forms encourages participants to engage in their own creative expression.
Cultural Appreciation: Fosters understanding and respect for global artistic traditions, bridging communities and generations.
Grant Alignment:
Sizzle Arts Appreciation Tours meets key objectives of arts, education, and community-based funding programs by:
Offering structured, high-quality educational programming
Promoting diversity and inclusivity in the arts
Demonstrating measurable outcomes in participant engagement and cultural enrichment
Supporting community development through partnerships with artists and cultural organizations
Conclusion:
By creating memorable, immersive art experiences, Sizzle Arts Appreciation Tours nurtures curiosity, celebrates creativity, and strengthens connections between individuals and the arts. The program reflects the Sizzle Arts Foundation’s commitment to innovation, cultural awareness, and community empowerment—making it a strong candidate for grant support.
