Pigskins to Paintbrushes: The Story of Football-Playing Artist Ernie Barnes

The inspiring true story of Ernie Barnes, who defined himself on his own terms and pushed the boundaries of “possible,” from the football field to the painting canvas.

Young Ernie Barnes was bullied for being shy, overweight, and uninterested in sports. He instead took refuge in his sketchbook, in vibrant colors, bold brushstrokes, and flowing lines.

But growing up in a poor, Black neighborhood during the 1930s, opportunities to learn about art were rare, and art museums were off-limits be...