Note on Art

Note on Art

A note from LeRoy Neiman on moving to New York and the changing aesthetic complexion of the Upper West Side.

This autobiographical note from LeRoy Neiman outlines his move to New York in 1962, from Chicago with a yearlong interlude in Paris. In the writing, the artist remarks on the changing landscape of his new neighborhood, the Upper West Side, with Lincoln Center finishing construction at his arrival.

LeRoy Neiman

LeRoy Neiman Foundation

LeRoy Neiman Foundation

c. 1990-2011

LeRoy Neiman

Property of the LeRoy Neiman Foundation; please consult the organization's archivist for further details.

Notes

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English

Document

LN_Notes_1298

New York (N.Y.) New York

When we first moved to NYC from Paris (it was better to settle in NY from Paris—you are then international) than from Chicago which classifies you as a Chicago artist.
We moved to 1 W 67 – several blocks from the new Lincoln Center. They were putting on the finishing touches. The Chagalls, the fountain
I sketched opening nite at the MET inside and outside. Later on I sketched Leonard Bernstein rehearsing the orchestra. The young Beverly Sills at rehearsal.
Pavarotti. The great musical talents we at your elbow. Balanchine, His young dancers Le Clerque, Susan Farrell. What great subject matter.
It was like doing the jazz greats on the near North side of Chicago where I lived on Chicago Ave just off Rust in the Center of the nite life belt.
A great start in Manhattan. I was pre-sports

Felt-tipped pen on paper.