Offset lithograph in colors, circa 1996, pencil signed, titled, and marked as artist's proof lower margin, framed.

The painted version of this print was commissioned by the NBA in 1996 to celebrate their 50th Anniversary.

Frame dimensions 41 1/2 x 26 3/4 in.

Private Collection, Durham, North Carolina

Ernie Barnes is known both as an artist and as a professional athlete. He was born in Durham, North Carolina during the Jim Crow Era, where his father was a shipping clerk for Liggett & Myers Tobacco Company and his mother ran the household for a local attorney. The attorney shared his extensive art book collection with Ernie, so Ernie was well-read in the arts by the time he began elementary school.

As a reserved child at school, Ernie was inspired by what he'd read and found solace in drawing. He also showed great promise as an athlete, ultimately becoming the captain of the football team and state champion in the shot put in high school. He went on to play football professionally as an offensive lineman for the New York Titans, the San Diego Chargers and the Denver Broncos, while simultaneously embarking on a successful career as a painter. In 1965, New York Jets owner Sonny Werblin paid Barnes a season’s salary to practice painting and then sponsored his first solo show at a well-known art gallery. Barnes retired from football at the age of 28 to paint full time.

Barnes is unique in his exceptional skill as an athlete and an artist, and for his union of both through the depiction of everyday life. North Carolina landmarks such as front porches, pool halls, and sports scenes often appear in his work.

Overall very nice condition; slight sheet bend upper right corner; not examined out of frame.