Note on Art

Note on Art

A note from LeRoy Neiman on fame and critical reception.

This note from LeRoy Neiman provides a reflection on the complexities of “talent”. Touching on the contradictions in his public face—the cultural currencies of his famed position, popular support, financial well-being, and criticism, the artist remarks how this extroverted and elastic status was undergird by a necessary “perseverance”. The artist wrote this note in tandem with another on his critical reception.

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.

Image/jpeg

English

Document

LN_Notes_1303

New York (N.Y.) New York

More TV one man shows – interviews, ink, then Montreal 76.
What happened to me – I got lots of attention – lots of money.
I USED AS A MEASURE MY VALUE like a Beautiful young girl, but the gifts I got… Restaurants I was taken to.
Never one to maintain a low profile. The eye-lure of my work became fashionable.
I became popular with it went all the goodies and the backlash.
As people bought more things, disapproval of my activities brought about attacks on the quality of my work.
I was so inspired, and active I could pay little heed
(perseverance)

Felt-tipped pen and marker on paper.