The Person
Jourdan Barnes nurtured within the culturally rich culture of New Orleans, derives inspiration from the confluence of art and health, articulating his worldview through the perspective of a Black Queer man. His academic trajectory culminated in a dual focus on Art and Psychology at Xavier University, laying the foundation for a distinguished career.
Establishing himself as a formidable presence in public health, Barnes spearheads communication initiatives to advance holistic health within Louisiana's Immunization Program. His artistic insight has garnered recognition on esteemed platforms, with exhibitions hosted at distinguished institutions such as The Ogden, Contemporary Art Center of New Orleans, and The Guggenheim in New York. Actively engaging in influential arts initiatives like Prospect New Orleans and Photoville, Barnes intricately weaves his distinctive viewpoint into the tapestry of the art world.
Currently assuming diverse roles, Barnes serves on the board of YAYA (Young Aspirations Young Artists) Inc., a program that served as his artistic foundation. Employing an innovative approach to digital photography, characterized by techniques like digital collage, he endeavors to amplify the experiences of Black women, men and the nuanced intersectionality of Black Queer men.
Of notable distinction, Barnes has been awarded the Ana and Adeline Foundation grant—an honor emblematic of his substantive contributions to the artistic realm. As an integral member of the 2023-24 New Orleans Museum of Art Creative Assembly cohort, Barnes continues to mold the cultural narrative. His artistic work takes center stage in the year-long exhibition "Son of a Ghost" at the Mary Beth Hotel in downtown New Orleans, a testament to the enduring impact of his creative vision.
Supplementing his array of accolades, Barnes is a prominent featured artist in "Gestures of Refusal" at the New Orleans Contemporary Art Center, highlighting his dedication to challenging established norms and fostering meaningful discourse through his art. Barnes is also a featured artist in the SEEING BLACK publication, released in October 2024. In all his pursuits, Barnes aspires to cultivate safe spaces wherein all Black individuals can experience a sense of wholeness and connection.
The Artist
As an artist, I specialize in creating digital photo collages and photographs that serve as powerful conduits for amplifying the voices and experiences of the Black community. Rooted in my own identity as a Black Queer man, my work is a reflection of the struggles, triumphs, and multifaceted nature of Blackness.
Drawing inspiration from the richness of textiles and the organic beauty of nature, particularly grass, vines, and trees, my compositions symbolize the diverse tapestry of Black cultures intertwined and flourishing. In pieces like "Union," I merge these elements seamlessly, depicting a Black couple standing united in a stance of strength amidst lush greenery and a backdrop reminiscent of a New Orleans shotgun home—an homage to the resilience and heritage of Black communities.
My journey as an artist is deeply intertwined with my quest for representation and belonging. Growing up, I grappled with a lack of visibility, making it challenging to forge my identity. Thus, my artistic mission is twofold: to carve out spaces within the Black community where individuals can feel seen, heard, and embraced and to challenge the prevailing notion of a monolithic "Blackness."
Through my work, I seek to illuminate the diverse and nuanced spectrum of Black experiences, showcasing the myriad ways in which we respond to adversity with creativity, resilience, and grace. By offering authentic and multifaceted representations, I aim to empower members of the Black community to see themselves reflected in their entirety—to feel connected, validated, and celebrated.
Ultimately, my art celebrates the inherent beauty and complexity of Blackness, inviting viewers to engage with a familiar and transformative narrative. Through these visual narratives, I hope we can collectively embrace the richness of our heritage, celebrate our differences, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
