On Exhibit

LeRoy Neiman’s Muhammad Ali
This exhibition showcases Neiman’s talents as a sketch artist portraying Muhammad Ali’s charisma and physique with fine lines and detail.  The exhibit showcases over 60 paintings and drawings covering such high-profile fights as Ali vs. Liston, Ali vs. Foreman, and Ali vs. Frazier (1971).  In appreciation of Neiman and Ali’s 40-year friendship, the gallery also includes photographs taken of the two men. 

About the Gallery

The LeRoy Neiman Gallery, located on Level 2 off the Main Lobby of the Muhammad Ali Center, is named for celebrated artist and Muhammad Ali friend, LeRoy Neiman.  The Neiman Gallery features changing exhibits and serves as a pre-function area located just outside of the Ali Center’s Auditorium.

About LeRoy Neiman

Beginning in 1964, LeRoy Neiman sketched and painted Muhammad Ali for over 15 years.  Known for attending boxing matches with a sketchbook in hand, Neiman has a gift for capturing the essence of the fight and the fighters, the motion and emotion.  Neiman followed Ali around the world recording his prizefights on canvas and even sketching pictures of Ali at his training camp.  On a number of occasions, Ali would turn the tables on Neiman and sketch his own version of an upcoming fight, providing Neiman with a prediction of the victory.

LeRoy Neiman’s signature style of brightly colored and brilliantly energetic interpretations of sports and leisure events has made him one of the most widely recognized living artists in the United States.  Neiman served as the official artist for five Olympiads, the 1980 Democratic National Convention, and the 1986 Goodwill Games.  He has painted dozens of sports icons from Babe Ruth and Joe DiMaggio to Michael Jordan and even Secretariat.  In 1995, Neiman’s generous gift to the School of Arts at Columbia University established the LeRoy Neiman Center for Print Studies in New York City.  Over the years, Neiman produced nine books featuring his artwork, received numerous awards for his artistic achievements and served as a member of the New York City Advisory Commission for Cultural Affairs for over 10 years.  LeRoy Neiman is also the official artist of the Muhammad Ali Center 2005 Grand Opening poster.