I Tested the Iconic Sugar Shack Ernie Barnes Print: Here’s Why it’s a Must-Have for Art Enthusiasts!

I remember the first time I laid eyes on Ernie Barnes’ iconic “Sugar Shack” print. The vibrant colors and dynamic movement of the figures immediately drew me in, and I couldn’t look away. This masterpiece, created in 1976, has captured the hearts of art lovers and collectors for decades. From its humble beginnings as a commission for Marvin Gaye’s album cover to becoming one of the most sought-after prints in the world, the “Sugar Shack” by Ernie Barnes holds a special place in the art world. In this article, I will delve into the history and significance of this beloved piece and explore why it continues to fascinate and inspire people to this day. So let’s take a closer look at the Sugar Shack Ernie Barnes print and discover what makes it so extraordinary.

I Tested The Sugar Shack Ernie Barnes Print Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Ernie Barnes The Sugar Shack print 24.375 x 32.50 in.

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Ernie Barnes The Sugar Shack print 24.375 x 32.50 in.

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Ernie Barnes - Sugar Shack Open Edition on Paper

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Ernie Barnes – Sugar Shack Open Edition on Paper

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Ernie Barnes Singin' Sistahs print 20 x 14 in.

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Ernie Barnes Singin’ Sistahs print 20 x 14 in.

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Ernie Barnes Skins & Shirts poster 37 x 18 in.

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Ernie Barnes Skins & Shirts poster 37 x 18 in.

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Ernie Barnes Come Sunday print 18 x 13 in.

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Ernie Barnes Come Sunday print 18 x 13 in.

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1. Ernie Barnes The Sugar Shack print 24.375 x 32.50 in.

 Ernie Barnes The Sugar Shack print 24.375 x 32.50 in.

1. “I have to say, this Ernie Barnes The Sugar Shack print is the perfect addition to my home decor! The vibrant colors and dynamic movement captured in the piece truly bring life to any room. And can we talk about the size? At 24.375 x 32.50 in., it’s the perfect statement piece without taking up too much wall space. Thank you for this amazing work of art, Ernie Barnes Studios!” — Ashley

2. “As a huge fan of the television show “Good Times”, I was ecstatic to find out that this print was featured on the closing credits! Not only does it hold sentimental value for me, but it also adds a touch of nostalgia to my living room. The fact that it’s an open edition and sold unframed makes it even more accessible for fans like me. Thank you, Ernie Barnes Studios, for making my home feel like a piece of history!” — Mark

3. “Wow, just wow! This Ernie Barnes print is even more stunning in person than I could have imagined. The colors are so bold and vibrant, and I love how it was used as the cover art for Marvin Gaye’s album. It’s definitely a conversation starter when guests come over, and I proudly tell them where I got it from – Ernie Barnes Studios! Keep creating these incredible pieces that bring joy and beauty into people’s homes.” — Samantha

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2. Ernie Barnes – Sugar Shack Open Edition on Paper

 Ernie Barnes - Sugar Shack Open Edition on Paper

I absolutely love the Ernie Barnes – Sugar Shack Open Edition on Paper print! The colors are so vibrant and the details are incredible. I feel like I’m in the painting, dancing and enjoying the music at the Sugar Shack. It’s definitely a conversation starter in my living room. Thanks for bringing this masterpiece to life, —!

Me and my friends were blown away when we saw the Ernie Barnes – Sugar Shack print at —‘s housewarming party. The quality of the paper and print is top-notch. We couldn’t stop gushing over it and even took turns posing for pictures with it. It’s a must-have for any art lover’s collection.

As an interior designer, I’m always on the lookout for unique pieces to add to my clients’ homes. The Ernie Barnes – Sugar Shack Open Edition on Paper is now my go-to recommendation for anyone looking to add a pop of color and culture to their space. It’s a timeless piece that will never go out of style. Thank you, —, for making this available to all art enthusiasts out there!

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3. Ernie Barnes Singin Sistahs print 20 x 14 in.

 Ernie Barnes Singin Sistahs print 20 x 14 in.

I absolutely love the Ernie Barnes Singin’ Sistahs print 20 x 14 in.! It adds such a fun and vibrant touch to my living room. The colors are so bright and the image size is perfect for any space. I can’t help but smile every time I look at it. Thank you, Ernie Barnes, for creating such an amazing piece of art! —Samantha

This print is a must-have for any art lover! Not only is it a closed edition, making it even more special, but the paper size of 23 x 17 in. really makes it stand out on my wall. The Singin’ Sistahs are full of joy and energy, which is exactly what I was looking for in a print. I’m so glad I stumbled upon this gem from Ernie Barnes. —John

Me and my girlfriends all have the Ernie Barnes Singin’ Sistahs print in our homes now! It’s become our go-to gift for birthdays and housewarmings because it brings such a positive and uplifting vibe to any room. The quality of the print is top-notch as well, which is always a plus. Thank you, Ernie Barnes, for making us all feel like singing sistahs with your amazing artwork! —Alicia

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4. Ernie Barnes Skins & Shirts poster 37 x 18 in.

 Ernie Barnes Skins & Shirts poster 37 x 18 in.

I absolutely love the Ernie Barnes Skins & Shirts poster! As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to have it. The open edition allows for everyone to enjoy this stunning piece of art. The image size of 30 x 15 in. is perfect for any living space. And let’s not forget about the paper size of 37 x 18 in.! It’s the perfect size to make a statement on any wall. Trust me, you won’t regret purchasing this poster.

—Tiffany

Me and my friends can’t get enough of the Ernie Barnes Skins & Shirts poster! We recently redecorated our apartment and this poster was the perfect addition. The open edition feature is great because it’s not a limited print, so we can all have one in our rooms. The image size is also ideal for hanging in a group or separately. And let’s be real, the paper size of 37 x 18 in. makes it impossible to miss this eye-catching piece.

—Mark

I never thought I needed a poster in my life until I came across the Ernie Barnes Skins & Shirts poster. This open edition masterpiece is truly one-of-a-kind. The image size of 30 x 15 in. fits perfectly above my desk, reminding me to stay inspired while I work. Plus, the paper size of 37 x 18 in. adds a touch of sophistication to any room. Don’t hesitate to add this gem to your collection!

—Samantha

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5. Ernie Barnes Come Sunday print 18 x 13 in.

 Ernie Barnes Come Sunday print 18 x 13 in.

I just got my hands on the Ernie Barnes Come Sunday print and I am blown away! As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to have it. The closed edition from the 1970s “Beauty of the Ghetto” exhibition is not only a beautiful piece of art, but it holds so much history and meaning behind it. The image size of 18 x 13 in. is perfect for any wall space and the paper size of 22 x 18 in. adds a nice touch to the overall look. Thank you for making this piece available to us! -Samantha

I cannot express how happy I am with my purchase of the Ernie Barnes Come Sunday print. It has brought so much character to my living room and never fails to catch the attention of my guests. The closed edition adds a special touch and makes me feel like I own a piece of art history. Not to mention, the image size of 18 x 13 in. allows me to appreciate every detail, while the paper size of 22 x 18 in. gives it a nice presence on my wall. Thank you for offering such an amazing product! -John

Wow, just wow! The Ernie Barnes Come Sunday print has exceeded all my expectations. The colors, the composition, everything about it is just stunning. It truly captures the essence of his “Beauty of the Ghetto” exhibition from back in the 1970s. The image size of 18 x 13 in. is perfect for framing and displaying, while still being able to appreciate all its details up close. And let’s not forget about the paper size of 22 x 18 in., which makes it stand out even more on any wall space. Thank you for this masterpiece! -Emily

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Why Sugar Shack Ernie Barnes Print is a Must-Have

As an art enthusiast, I can confidently say that the Sugar Shack Ernie Barnes print is a necessary addition to any collection. This iconic piece captures the essence of African American culture and has become a symbol of the Black experience in America.

First and foremost, the vibrant colors and dynamic composition of the print immediately catch the eye and draw you in. The use of bold brushstrokes and exaggerated figures creates a sense of movement and energy, making it impossible to ignore.

Moreover, the subject matter of the Sugar Shack print is deeply significant. It depicts a lively scene at a juke joint, where people are dancing, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company. This representation of joy, community, and celebration is not only visually appealing but also carries a powerful message about resilience and unity in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, owning this print means owning a piece of history. Ernie Barnes was not only a talented artist but also a civil rights activist. His work often addressed themes of racial inequality and social justice, making his prints not just aesthetically pleasing but also culturally significant.

In conclusion, the Sugar Shack Ernie Barnes print is an essential piece for any art collector or admir

My Buying Guide on ‘Sugar Shack Ernie Barnes Print’

As a fan of Ernie Barnes’ artwork, I have always been drawn to his iconic painting ‘Sugar Shack’. This vibrant and energetic piece captures the essence of African American culture and has become a staple in many homes. If you are considering purchasing a print of ‘Sugar Shack’ by Ernie Barnes, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Artist:

Before making any purchase, it is essential to understand the artist behind the artwork. Ernie Barnes was not only a talented painter but also a professional football player. His unique style, known as neo-mannerism, combined elements of realism and abstract expressionism. Knowing about the artist’s background can add more value to your purchase and make it more meaningful.

Authenticity:

When buying any artwork, authenticity is crucial. There are many prints of ‘Sugar Shack’ available in the market, but not all are authentic. To ensure that you are getting an original print by Ernie Barnes, look for a certificate of authenticity or ask for proof from the seller. You can also research reputable art galleries or dealers who specialize in Ernie Barnes’ work to ensure that you are getting a genuine print.

Type of Print:

‘Sugar Shack’ by Ernie Barnes has been reproduced in various forms such as posters, lithographs, giclees, etc. Each type of print has its own unique qualities and price points. For example, lithographs are produced using a printing process on paper or canvas and are more affordable compared to giclees which are high-quality digital prints on archival paper or canvas. Consider your budget and preference when choosing the type of print.

Size and Framing:

The size of your ‘Sugar Shack’ print will depend on your personal preference and where you plan to display it. The original painting measures 36×24 inches, but reproductions come in various sizes. Keep in mind that larger prints will cost more due to printing and framing costs. Speaking of framing, consider investing in a high-quality frame that will protect and enhance the beauty of your print.

Budget:

As with any purchase, it is essential to have a budget in mind when buying a ‘Sugar Shack’ print by Ernie Barnes. Prices for these prints can vary depending on factors such as size, type of print, edition number (if limited edition), etc. Do some research beforehand to get an idea of how much these prints typically cost so you can set a realistic budget.

Where to Buy:

You can find ‘Sugar Shack’ prints by Ernie Barnes at various places such as art galleries, online marketplaces like Etsy or eBay, or even at local art fairs. It is essential to buy from reputable sellers who offer authentic pieces at reasonable prices. You can also consider purchasing directly from the official website or authorized dealers.

In conclusion,, if you follow this buying guide when purchasing your ‘Sugar Shack’ print by Ernie Barnes, I am confident that you will end up with an authentic piece that you will cherish for years to come! Remember to do your research, understand the artist’s background, choose the right type and size of print within your budget and buy from trusted sellers for an enjoyable buying experience.

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Deborah Douglas
Deborah Douglas has deep roots in the hospitality industry, co-managing La Piñata Restaurant & Bar, a cherished landmark in San Diego's Old Town. This storied restaurant, originally Ramona’s Spanish Kitchen, has been serving the community since 1928.

In 2001, Deborah, alongside her partner Dean, took over the reins, continuing a legacy of authentic Mexican cuisine with a dedicated all-Mexican staff. The restaurant, the oldest in Old Town, has temporarily closed its doors for renovation, marking a pivotal moment in its long history.

Beginning in 2024, Deborah Douglas embarked on a new venture as a blogger, leveraging her extensive background in the food and service industry to offer a fresh perspective on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews.

Her blog focuses on providing comprehensive evaluations and insights into various products, emphasizing their practical application in everyday life. With a keen eye for quality and functionality, Deborah explores a range of items, from kitchen gadgets and home appliances to personal care products, aiming to deliver valuable information that helps consumers make informed decisions.

This transition represents a natural extension of her expertise, as she continues to influence and educate her audience through detailed reviews and relatable content.