LeBron James, represents the very epitome of what My American Dream stands for, indeed for most people’s interpretation of the American Dream. He is also still a historic hometown hero for Ohio and now LA as he is with the Lakers, giving me inspiration to paint this great man who achieved all and broke the curse for a community with his incredible heart, mind, skill, and talents.

Despite all odds, LeBron was able to have the vision and fortitude to achieve all, and with the support of his friends, family, coaches, school and community, to bring him and his world to new, visionary heights. I love images that capture historic moments, and have painted his famous “The Block,” where LeBron breaks the “Cleveland Curse” by his amazing play. In this image LeBron James “throws down a thunderous dunk” in Game 4 of the May 12, 2008 Game 4 NBA Playoff over the Celtics’ Kevin Garnett, considered one of his greatest plays ever. When painting this, I was again inspired by this man who is so generous and incredible, who plays and lives despite all odds to be one of the greatest athletes of all time, to bring victory not just to his teammates and state, but also to all Americans and people who struggle everywhere. He is also one of the most outspoken athletes and leaders of our day, opening a school in his hometown for the disadvantaged, and courageously speaking out against the Trump administration. I also am thinking of the great Goya paintings of matadors, where you see the crowd celebrating on the matador (and sometimes the bull) where his total concentration needs to be at the very public task at hand while sometimes you have a crowd jeering as much as cheering you on. In this image, you also have the flag, symbolizing America, LeBron’s tattoos, symbolizing his past, struggles, and ambitions, and a very quick moment in time that hopefully is captured forever.