Filmmakers Chike Oza and Coody Simmons bring the story of Ernie Barnes to the screen.
Burns was the first American professional athlete to gain significant recognition as a visual artist. Barnes played five seasons as an offensive lineman with the New York Titans, San Diego Chargers, and Denver Broncos. He was also a painter, and his work included the painting “Sugar Shack,” which sold for more than $22 million.
In the new documentary “Who Is Ernie Barnes?,” the filmmakers known as Coody & Chike trace Barnes’ story using Barnes’ own words, rare archival footage, and commentary from voices in art, music, sports, dance, and entertainment, each reflecting his lasting impact.
The documentary is scheduled to begin screening later this month and will be presented as a three-act immersive experience. Guests begin by watching one segment in a specially designed “theatre” set that reflects key stages in Burns’ career. After each screening, guests will be taken to a selected “room” that expands on the chapter they just watched, featuring exhibits and interactive experiences focused on that period of Burns’ life. This sequence is repeated in all three segments, creating an immersive journey through his life and career.
“Don’t let your imagination get in the way of God’s manifestation,” Simmons said. He continued, “I dreamed of having a picture of Ernie Barnes on my wall, and when I looked up at the sky I saw a real-life record of his artistic process.”
Oza added, “I remember looking at his work as a kid and feeling something I had never felt before. I felt like I had to go after it. His art set the bar for what I thought was possible. In many ways, I’ve followed Ernie Barnes my whole life. Now, telling his story feels like a full circle.”
The show will debut in Los Angeles during Super Bowl XI next year, then head to Chicago and New York. The LA28 Summer Olympics will see Burns return to his chosen hometown.
“This film offers a glimpse into Ernie Barnes’ dedication and remarkable journey, and reveals why he is one of the most interesting and inspiring artists of the 20th century,” said Luz Rodriguez, Barnes’ longtime assistant and managing director of his estate.
