Royal Family 1996

LeRoy Neiman made this painting of a Royal Family with expressive brushstrokes and a vivid palette. This kind of mark-making is all about the process; the painting becomes a record of the actions of the artist. The paint is applied in layers, with thick strokes defining the forms and thinner washes creating depth and atmosphere. I love the way the surface shimmers with color. Neiman has captured the essence of these lions, but he's also let the paint do its own thing. Look closely, and you'll see how the colors blend and bleed into each other, creating a sense of movement and energy. The overall effect is both dynamic and expressive. This painting reminds me a little of Franz Marc’s animal paintings, though Neiman has his own approach. Ultimately, it's up to each viewer to find their own meaning in the work.