Artist LeRoy Neiman dies at age 91

LeRoy Neiman, iconic American artist, died Wednesday at the age of 91.

Neiman was known for his “trademark handlebar mustache,” and his impressive representation of world sports events, CNN reports. Although the cause of death is still unknown, his wife Janet along with his family remained by his side in the New York Presbyterian Hospital in Manhattan. In a statement released, his wife states, “We mourn the passing of such an extraordinary and talented man."

Sport events were not the only thing the talent artist depicted. Neiman also painted presidents, jazz musicians, extraordinary animals of Africa among other subjects.

Neiman was recognized by the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2007 for his magnificent work on both program covers and fight posters for the Muhammad Ali-Joe Frazier fight. His artistry made his name strongly known in the world of boxing and was later asked to appear in four of the Rocky movies by actor/director, Sylvester Stallone. Neiman also worked closely painting portrayal of the Olympic Games, being named the “official artist” of the Olympic Winter Games as well as the Summer Olympics.

Among his other recognitions come with his work with Playboy magazine. People reports that Neiman worked closely alongside creator Hugh Hefner going on “globe-trotting expeditions” for the magazine.

Hefner mourned the loss of Neiman, writing on his Twitter, “Long time friend & resident Playboy artist LeRoy Neiman has passed away at the age of 91. R.I.P.”

In 2008 Neiman told the AP, “I've had a lucky life. I’ve zeroed in on what you would call action and excellence. ... Everybody who does anything to try to succeed has to give the best of themselves, and art has made me pull the best out of myself."

image: YouTube