CMG is deeply saddened to announce the passing of their client, internationally renowned pop-culture artist, Steve Kaufman.

According to a statement from the Vail Police Department, Kaufman died early Friday morning in Vail, Colorado. He was 49 years old.

“My wife Stacey and I are saddened to lose our good friend Steve so unexpectedly,” said CMG, CEO Mark Roesler. “Steve was a giant in many different respects. Not only was he 6 feet, 7 inches tall, but he was also a giant in the art world and had a giant heart.”

Kaufman was born in 1960 in The Bronx, New York City. He got his start as a teenager, working as an assistant to Andy Warhol. He later evolved into one of the most prolific pop artists of his time, producing hundreds of famous paintings each year.

“We took great pride in representing Steve and his art,” said Roesler. “His imagery of Marilyn Monroe and James Dean were known throughout the world. His artwork was a personal favorite of mine as it graced our offices and our museum in Indianapolis.”

At the time of his death, Kaufman had two studios, one in Sherman Oaks, California and another in New York City. CMG was the agent for Kaufman and his work was often used by companies around the world that wanted iconic imagery of Marilyn Monroe and James Dean.

Kaufman was also known for his generous work with charities and supporting various causes such as AIDS, gang violence and homelessness.

“He worked with troubled people who had just been released from jail and not only helped them get a new start on life, but also helped make our society a better place,” said Roesler.”

Kaufman’s dynamic style will continue to set him apart for future generations. His love for art was evident throughout his well-respected career. He was once quoted saying, “I’m truly blessed to be doing what I’ve always wanted – create. I have found a freedom that is hard to put into words.”

To learn more about this legend click here.

The Academy Award winning English actor, novelist, and Army captain, David Niven, who was best known for his outstanding roles in the 1956 adventure film “Around the World in 80 Days”, “A Matter of Life and Death” and ”The Pink Panther”, is now part of the CMG client family.

David was born as James David Graham Niven on March 1, 1910, in London, England. He was the son of a prominent British Army captain who died in the battle of Gallipoli in 1915.

During Niven’s life, he appeared in over a hundred films, including but not limited to, his Golden Globe winning performance in “The Moon Is Blue” (1953), his Oscar winning performance in “Separate Tables” (1958), and “The Guns Of Navarone” (1961). In 1967, Niven played the role of James Bond in “Casino Royale.” He later starred in the 1980 action film “The Sea Wolves.”

Niven, a polished raconteur, wrote four books which included, “Round the Rugged Rocks” (1951), “The Moon’s a Balloon” (1971), “On the Empty Horses” (1975), and “Go Slowly, Come Back Quickly” (1983).

Niven died on July 29, 1983 in his home in Switzerland. He will always be remembered for his award-winning acting skills, his exceptional writing ability, and the way he lit up the room with his witty banter.

“I’ve been lucky enough to win an Oscar, write a best-seller – my other dream would be to have a painting in the Louvre. The only way that’s going to happen is if I paint a dirty one on the wall of the gentlemen’s lavatory.” ~David Niven

To learn more about this legendary actor, check back here for the official launch of his website!

In light of Black History month, CMG is honoring those individuals who left their footprints on our culture with a special tribute site.

On this site you will be able to read about CMG’s legendary clients, click through photos, and even purchase fan memorabilia.

In addition, an essay contest as part of CMG’s month-long tribute to commemorate African American heritage, will be held. The theme of this year’s contest is: “One dream, one nation.” Click here for more details.