Hustler c. 1978

"Hustler," created by Ernie Barnes in 1978, depicts a man in a brown suit focused intensely on taking a shot in a game of pool. The artwork is painted in a realistic style with bold strokes and vibrant colors. Barnes was known for his iconic depictions of African American life, often emphasizing the power and grace of Black athletes. This piece captures the thrill and strategy of the game, and the concentration of the player, highlighting the everyday activities of Black people in an often overlooked context.