From tragedy to optimism, Venus and Serena Williams‘ life journey has been inspirational. Even after becoming well-known tennis players, there was a period in their lives when they struggled with themselves. This was the time when they lost their eldest half-sister, Yetunde Price, in a drive-by shooting that occurred in 2003. Despite all they have endured, the Williams sisters have, since then, established a resource center for other victims of violence.

In order to support the Yetunde Price Resource Center, the Williams sisters have now teamed up with renowned American artist Ernie Barnes, 20 years after their horrific family tragedy. However, do you know that the artist involved in the project features a $15,300,000 record-holding American artist’s rare work?

Venus and Serena Williams’ artist holds a multi-million dollar record

Just a few months before Yetunde’s 20th death anniversary, the Williams sisters have come together for a noble project honoring their sister. Supporting them are their half-sisters, Isha Price and Lyndrea Price as well. They have organized a special event to showcase the extraordinary works of American artist Ernie Barnes, with the aim to raise funds for Yetunde Price Resource Center.

The iconic sister duo has made a few pieces available for auction on Joopiter’s site. But one demands special attention. They hold high hopes for a successful bid, allowing them to raise a decent amount of money to provide essential resources for individuals impacted by violence in Compton. Even though Ernie Barnes is no longer alive, his art pieces are a part of his life. Thus, ‘Joopiter’ briefly shared his inspiring story on their official Instagram handle, and highlighted the importance of the event, titled ‘Holding Court’.

According to the Instagram post, last year, the neo-mannerist painter set a personal record with this particular painting. His iconic 1976 artwork, ‘The Sugar Shack’, was sold for 15.3 million dollars. Along with that, the iconic artwork was inspired by the painter’s personal life. With ‘The Sugar Shack’, the auction features four different masterpieces by the artist, each of them spellbinding. However, the biggest question is what made the seven-time Grand Slam champion choose Barnes’ artwork.

Venus Williams shared why they chose Barnes’ artworks

When the 43-year-old announced the noble cause on her Instagram account, she shared the story of the philanthropic event too. In the same post, she also provided details of the pieces being auctioned. She revealed that not only she but also her family have long admired the iconic Barnes.

The older Williams sister added to the praise for Barnes’ artwork by remarking on its beauty and vivid imagery. She highlighted how the artist dreamed of a vibrant society where all communities, ethnicities, and races lived in peace. It will undoubtedly be an incredible achievement if the auction’s painting sales surpass Barnes’ current records. Do you think that might happen? Let us know below.

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