Last year, we launched the Artists Promoting Artists 16-month Calendar series.  Calendars 1 and 2 presented the talents of 22 artists from around the country, as well as monthly historical facts! Plus, each month showcased quality artwork suitable for framing. 

James and Earnestine Huff are a husband and wife team of artists whose work has been widely exhibited both nationally and internationally. Their work has appeared in more than 25 publications and periodicals, including: Ebony; Encore; Art Voices; Essence; Black Family Magazine; and the history book Paths Towards Freedom.

The Huffs have received more than thirty awards and honors including the Best in Show award in ten National Art Competitions. 

James received his MFA Degree in Studio Art from the University of N.C. at Greensboro, North Carolina.  He completed his undergraduate studies at Shaw University in Raleigh, N.C.  Earnestine’s background includes study in dance, music, and modeling, as well as the visual arts.  She majored in Business Management and Economics at Shaw University.

Selected Awards & Commissions

1976: $1500 Purchase Award International Competition, Statesville Art Commission.

1979: Gold Metal and $1000.00 1st Place Award, N.C. Museum of Art Purchase Award winner.

1978-1989: Designed and Produced Nabisco’s® Famous Black American Poster Series: Writers, Leaders, Educators, Entertainers (1 & 2), Scientists, Generals & Admirals.

1990: Designed the “Sit-In” Sculpture for the Woolworth Museum, Greensboro, N.C.

1996: Created 12 original pieces of art for Shaw University’s Living/Learning Center.  Limited Edition Prints and Serigraphs of the 12 originals are being sold as part of the Shaw University Art Portfolio fundraiser.

1997: Artist of the Year (James Huff), United Arts Council, Greensboro, N.C.

2000: Artist of the Year (Earnestine Huff), United Arts Council, Greensboro, N.C.

2002: Commissioned by North Hills Elementary School in Winston-Salem, N.C. to design and complete a mural.