Head over Heels
Growth through Limits
Ernie Barnes' imaginative paintings reflect his life and tell stories about the hopes and dreams of humanity.
Ernie grew up in North Carolina in the 1940s, during a period of extreme prejudice and racial segregation. He attended a segregated school and was denied the opportunity to attend the universities of his choice all because of his color. After graduation from North Carolina College in 1960, Ernie began a six-year career in professional football with the San Diego Chargers.
One day, while on the football field, Ernie looked up at the sky and said, "That's beautiful!" At that moment he realized his desire to become an artist was stronger than his desire to play football.
Too often artists are not famous until after they die. Ernie Barnes was fortunate to be famous during his lifetime. He was the Official Artist for the 1984 Olympic Games. His paintings have appeared in museum exhibitions. As soon as Ernie finished a painting, prominent collectors raced to buy them.
Ernie Barnes created graceful work that demonstrates how art can inspire hope for a better life.
Paintings © Ernie Barnes. Reproduced by permission.
