Barkley L. Hendricks
American, 1945 - 2017
A painter and photographer, Barkley L. Hendricks created work that transcends traditional portraiture.
Born in Philadelphia, Hendricks studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (1963–1967) and later earned his MFA at Yale University, where he was influenced by photographer Walker Evans.
Hendricks is best known for his large-scale, iconic painted portraits of African Americans. Photography played a central role in shaping his approach. He saw his camera as a “mechanical sketchbook,” using it to experiment with composition, light, and texture before translating these ideas into his paintings. His street photography and portrait work were deeply integrated into his creative process, informing the bold realism and vibrant color that characterize his painted subjects.
Explore Selected Works
Artwork

Self-Portrait with Red Sweater
Self-Portrait with Red Sweater
Barkley L. Hendricks · 1980, printed 2023 · chromogenic print · Accession ID 2023.171.2
Artwork

George Jules Taylor
George Jules Taylor
Barkley L. Hendricks · 1972 · oil on canvas · Accession ID 1973.19.2
Artwork

Dr. Kool, Philadelphia
Dr. Kool, Philadelphia
Barkley L. Hendricks · 1972 · gelatin silver print · Accession ID 2023.171.1
Artwork

Sir Charles, Alias Willie Harris
Sir Charles, Alias Willie Harris
Barkley L. Hendricks · 1972 · oil and acrylic on canvas · Accession ID 1973.19.1