Charlotte Celebrates Ernie Barnes’ Masterpiece “The Sugar Shack” at The Mint Museum

Charlotte Welcomes Ernie Barnes’ Iconic Artwork

Hey there, art lovers! If you’re in the Queen City, there’s an exciting cultural treasure waiting just for you at The Mint Museum Uptown. For the very first time, you can feast your eyes on “The Sugar Shack”, a stunning masterpiece by the late Durham native Ernie Barnes. This captivating painting is stealing hearts and captivating minds as it takes center stage in the museum’s American Art galleries until June 30!

A Glimpse into Black Culture

So, what’s all the fuss about? “The Sugar Shack” portrays a vibrant scene from a Black music hall in the mid-20th century, bringing to life the joy and celebration of Black culture at a time when segregation cast a long shadow. The painting is full of movement and emotion, perfectly showcasing dancers and musicians who are lost in the sheer thrill of the moment, as noted by a Mint Museum spokesperson.

The Buzz from the Collectors

This artwork isn’t just any ordinary piece; it recently made headlines by fetching an astounding price of over $15 million at auction in 2022! The Houston collectors, Lara and Bill Perkins, who now own it, have a rich history with The Mint Museum, having previously loaned the institution three paintings by another celebrated artist, John Biggers.

As Bill Perkins shared in a video, he feels that everyone deserves to see this masterpiece. He passionately explained, “This is such a great masterpiece… Why did he paint the figures this way? What does it mean to be in the segregated South?” Perkins wants people to engage with the artwork, ask questions, and uncover the fascinating layers behind it.

A Personal Connection

Ernie Barnes drew inspiration from his own life, recalling a moment from his youth when he sneaked into the Durham Armory in 1952 to witness a performance by Clyde McPhatter and the Dominoes. His own reflections capture the essence of that night: “It was the first time I sneaked into a Rhythm and Blues concert… I stood among the dancing with my mouth dropped and nobody noticed me.” Those emotions and memories flowed into the vibrant energy captured in “The Sugar Shack”.

A Cultural Icon

But that’s not all! This iconic painting gained even more fame when it graced the cover of Marvin Gaye’s 1976 album I Want You and was featured during the credits of the beloved sitcom Good Times, which aired for six glorious seasons in the late ’70s. The Mint Museum boasts that Barnes’ artwork has become a “cultural touchstone”, representing the vibrancy and resilience of Black culture.

More from the Artistic Legend

Alongside “The Sugar Shack”, The Mint Museum is also showcasing two other stunning works by Barnes: “New Shoes” and “Marble Shooter”. A multi-talented individual, Barnes was not only an artist but also a former NFL player! His ability to capture movement with elongated figures has left a lasting mark on the world of art.

He even graced the Olympics with five themed paintings for the 1984 Summer Olympics and created a tribute artwork for the Los Angeles Lakers featuring the likes of Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar! Barnes was indeed a remarkable artist whose legacy continues to inspire.

Visit the Masterpiece!

If you’re eager to witness this beautiful work of art, make your way to The Mint Museum Uptown at 500 S. Tryon St. Good news for those interested: general admission is quite reasonable, with free entry for members and those under 18. Adults can enjoy the museum for just $15, while seniors and college students can visit for $10. And if you’re a night owl, head over on Wednesdays from 5 to 9 p.m., when admission is complimentary!

So, what are you waiting for? Come immerse yourself in the history and soul of Black culture through this magnificent painting. Don’t forget to bring your friends and family along, because experiencing art is always better together!


Author: HERE Charlotte

HERE Charlotte

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