Luz met Ernie Barnes in 1984 when she worked in the news department of the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee and he was appointed the official Sports Artist. In 1988, Barnes hired her as his personal assistant. Since 2009, Luz has managed all aspects of Barnes’ career, including producing his Catalogue Raisonné, documentary, film and books. She recently founded the Ernie Barnes Legacy Project. Luz is a member of USC Cardinal & Gold, Lakers Nation and the “First and #1 Carolina Panthers Fan in California.”

Deidre is the eldest daughter of Ernie Barnes. She serves as a consultant to the estate and is a member of the Board of Directors for the Ernie Barnes Legacy Project. DD graduated from her father’s alma maters, Hillside High and North Carolina Central University (both in Durham, NC) and is a proud Hornet and Eagle alum. DD cherishes her faith in Jesus Christ, her family, lifelong friendships and being a Dog Mom. As Barnes’ firstborn, she enjoys being the Sibling CEO.

During Laurie’s two decades of working directly with Ernie Barnes, she wore many hats. She is now the Director of Special Projects, which includes the programs that celebrate Barnes in his hometown, Durham, North Carolina. As a Sagittarius, Laurie enjoys traveling and discovering interesting and non-interesting places. Between playing bass guitar and hosting movie nights, she is ruled by a 6 lb. chihuahua/terrier mix named Ginger.