High Aspirations
“High Aspirations” by Ernie Barnes is an iconic work of art that beautifully captures the dynamism and determination inherent in the world of sports. Painted in 1971, this piece reflects Barnes’s unique style, characterized by elongated forms and fluid movement. It vividly depicts a basketball player in mid-air, gliding toward the hoop. The player has been practicing all day in his backyard, aspiring to achieve greatness in basketball, and is willing to work to make his dreams a reality. The composition’s verticality mirrors the athlete’s upward leap and ambition, set against the backdrop of a clear sky and a distant farmhouse, symbolizing the player’s transcendence and relentless pursuit of dreams.
This painting was first exhibited at the Heritage Gallery in Los Angeles during the influential “The Beauty of the Ghetto” exhibition in 1972. This showcase was crucial in presenting Barnes’s vision of beauty within the struggle and his exploration of movement and grace. “High Aspirations” was purchased by the legendary singer and civil rights activist Harry Belafonte in the same year. It became part of his cherished collection before being passed on to his son, David Belafonte, reflecting a familial appreciation for its significance. In 2015, the painting was acquired by a private collector, marking a new chapter in its storied history.
Barnes’s work for his “The Beauty of the Ghetto” exhibition was distinguished by using a “wood fence” style frame made from the actual picket fence of his father’s home. This framing choice was not just a stylistic decision but a heartfelt tribute to his father’s labor as a shipping clerk and fence builder, grounding the artwork in personal history and familial pride.
Ernie Barnes, born in 1938 in Durham, North Carolina, was a renowned artist whose journey from professional football player to celebrated painter is as inspiring as his artwork. After retiring from the NFL, Barnes pursued his passion for art, developing a distinctive style marked by elongated figures and dynamic movement. His work vividly captures the essence of African American life and culture, resonating with audiences for its emotional depth and cultural narratives. Barnes’s art gained significant recognition in galleries and popular culture, notably through the television series “Good Times.” His contributions have left a lasting impact on the art world, highlighting the beauty and complexity of everyday life through his expressive and powerful visual storytelling.
Â
Open edition. Offset Lithograph.
Unframed: Measures 27×16 inches (paper size) and 22×11 inches (image size).
Distressed Frames (No Mat): Measures approximately 28.25×17.75 inches (finished framed size) and 22×11 inches (image size). Please note there is some border that shows in this framing choice. It is not framed to the image. If you desire it to be framed to the image please contact us prior to purchasing.
Double Mat with Frame: Measures approximately 31.5×20.5 (finished framed size) and 22×11 inches (image size).Â
