It has been difficult to hold onto many paintings but I have retained a few. Possibly the current favorite is titled 'Big Band' completed in 2005. It measures 13 feet x 9 feet. It has 18 nearly life size recognizable portraits of the biggest jazz stars that I knew and saw perform in the 1950s, '60s, '70s, '80s and includes Wynton Marsalis.
LeRoy NeimanThroughout my life, cigars have played different roles for me. They fit easily and well in the various stages and experiences Ive had -- like a companion, almost. If youve smoked a long time, as I have, they become part of you.
LeRoy NeimanThe businessman says 'If I don't do it first, somebody else will.' The artist says 'If I don't do it first, nobody else will.'
LeRoy NeimanThe people who love my paintings, that respond to them the most, they're spectators, they're not viewers.
LeRoy NeimanI have always said to young artists that scholastic training and the studying of art history are crucial to fully developing as an artist.
LeRoy NeimanI had a go at changing history - maybe not all by myself - I fought at the battle of Normandy, I slogged through the Ardennes, and I celebrated the liberation of Paris on the streets with beautiful French girls throwing flowers at me. I said good-bye to my first true love and discovered what I really wanted to do with my life.
LeRoy Neiman