Leroy Neiman (American, 1921 to 2012)
LeRoy Neiman is known for his brilliantly colored, semi-abstract paintings. In 1954, a chance meeting with Hugh Hefner led to a longtime association with Playboy magazine for the artist. He is also well known for his extensive work illustrating sports figures and events. With his trademark Salvador Dali-esque mustache and ever-present sketchpad in hand, the eighty-year-old-plus Neiman remains a fixture at ringside for boxing’s biggest events. He died in New York City on June 20, 2012 at the age of 91 years.
Information courtesy of Heritage Auction Galleries, June 2008 and updated by p4A June 2012.