Ernie Eugene Barnes, Jr.

Painter Ernie Barnes discovered his passion for art early in life, but during high school, he shifted focus to athletics, driven in part by peer pressure. He excelled in football, graduating as a star athlete with offers from 26 colleges. Choosing to attend North Carolina Central University, he majored in art while continuing his athletic career. Even as a professional football player, Barnes remained devoted to his artistic vision. For him, football offered discipline and achievement, while art provided a means to explore and interpret life. In 1966, he retired from sports to fully pursue art. His athletic background deeply influenced his style, merging physical movement with expressive visual form. Known for his satirical and exaggerated figures, Barnes brought humor, vitality, and social commentary to his work. His goal was to present human life with energy and emotion, blending entertainment with artistic insight.