The NY Historical Society celebrates the late boxing legend, Muhammad Ali and explores his friendship with artist, LeRoy Neiman and photographer, George Kalinsky in two exhibitions.  The “Art of Boxing” highlights Neiman’s watercolors and sketches, including one that Ali did, himself.  “I Am King of the World” features many photos of Ali in and out of the ring by Kalinsky who was Madison Square Garden’s award-winning house photographer.

The two exhibits offer an insider’s perspective on major moments in Ali’s career including his bouts with Sonny Liston and Joe Frazier, as well as behind-the-scenes glimpses of his personal life.

The exhibit also addresses Ali’s personal life such as his conversion to Islam and refusal to serve in the Army.  Also on view are his boxing gloves and robe.

This is a very interesting exhibit on the life of a 20th century icon.

Miriam Silverberg is a freelance journalist and owner of Miriam Silverberg Associates, a boutique publicity agency in Manhattan.

She may be reached at silverbergm@mindspring.com