LeRoy Neiman’s Cluny Unicorn sold for $4,800 at Bonhams American Art Online auction on Aug. 13–23, 2023 in New York City. Neiman was an American artist who was famous for his vibrant colored paintings, not unlike the unicorn featured on this month’s cover, as well as his screenprints of athletes, musicians and sporting events.
After serving in the U.S. Army during World
War II, Neiman went on to enjoy a prolific art career. He taught at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago for 10 years, while simultaneously exhibiting his art in various competitions. One of Neiman’s big breaks came in 1954, when he became a contributor to Playboy magazine, a position he held for 50 years.
Neiman lived his best life, traveling the world and attending and painting prestigious sporting events including the Olympics, the Super Bowl, the World Series, the Kentucky Derby and Wimbledon, just to name a few. His works earned him many accolades throughout his career, including five honorary doctorates.
Acknowledging the great privilege his career afforded him, Neiman sponsored and supported numerous organizations across the country that foster art activities for underprivileged children. This month’s Special Report covers all the bases of charitable giving, keeping estate planners abreast of a wide range of topics from donor intent to charitable limited liability companies.
Some of our other favorites, from Bonhams American Art Online auction on Aug. 13–23, 2023 in New York City, appear throughout the issue.