Charles Bibbs is a California artist and publisher, born in San Pedro and raised in Harbor City, known for bold, larger-than-life portraits that express spirituality, majesty, dignity, strength and grace. In 1991 he left a long management career to found B Graphics and Fine Arts and publish his own work, and his prints became a fixture in African American homes.
Bibbs is the largest artist collection in our gallery, with more than 180 pieces. Here is the artist, his themes and how to choose. See our Charles Bibbs prints.
Key takeaways
- Born in San Pedro and raised in Harbor City, California.
- Founded B Graphics and Fine Arts in 1991 to publish his art.
- Known for regal portraits, bold color and pattern.
- Created the Black Madonna image for the film The Secret Life of Bees.
- Our largest artist collection, with open and signed editions.
From management to master printmaker
For years Bibbs painted after full workdays. In 1991 he left a 25-year management position to build a publishing and distribution company for his own prints. He also founded Images Magazine, a national publication for contemporary African American art, and has described Black artists as keepers of our culture.
Themes in his work
- Majesty and dignity: women and men painted with regal posture and adornment.
- Spirituality: many works carry a sense of the sacred.
- Family: pieces such as The Hug and Daddy celebrate love at home.
- Pattern and color: strong graphic backgrounds frame the figure.
Notable works in our collection
A Lady and A Chair, Jomandi, Daddy and The Hug are among the Bibbs pieces our visitors ask for most. Each listing states its format and edition.
How to choose a Bibbs piece
- Start with the room: Bibbs' bold color anchors entry halls and living rooms.
- Decide on a theme: portrait, family or faith.
- Pick a format: open edition for value, signed edition for collecting.
- Frame with a mat color pulled from the background pattern.
Bibbs and the art print market
By publishing his own work, Bibbs helped build the market for African American art prints, putting original images within reach of everyday collectors across the country.
Framing Charles Bibbs prints
Bibbs' patterned backgrounds suggest mat colors. A deep burgundy, gold or black inner mat pulled from the pattern, with a cream outer mat, makes the portrait glow. Every print bought from us earns 25% off custom framing.
Building a Bibbs collection
Many collectors start with one portrait and add pieces by theme: women, family, faith or culture. Because our collection is the largest of any artist in our catalog, it is easy to compare editions side by side.
Reading a Bibbs portrait
Bibbs builds his portraits in layers: a strong central figure, rich clothing or adornment, then a patterned background that sets the mood. Look for symbols in the pattern and the jewelry; they often point to heritage and faith. The figures rarely look away from the viewer, which gives his work its sense of dignity and presence.
Frequently asked questions
Is Charles Bibbs still making art?
His prints remain widely published. Check each listing for current editions.
Are Charles Bibbs prints signed?
Many are hand signed and numbered. The listing states the edition details.
What is Charles Bibbs known for?
Regal portraits with bold color and pattern, and the Black Madonna image for The Secret Life of Bees.
See the collection
Browse Charles Bibbs prints or visit our Black art gallery Atlanta location at The Mall at Stonecrest.
