Gene Locklear
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Chief: The Three Lives of Gene Locklear is more than a biography — it's a vivid tapestry of Gene's extraordinary journey as a Native American, a major league baseball player, and an acclaimed painter. This deeply personal narrative intertwines the voices of teammates, family, and friends to illuminate a life shaped by resilience, creativity, and cultural pride.
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Gene's story is not just professional — it's tribal and personal. From humble beginnings in the Lumbee community to standing tall in ballparks across the nation and galleries filled with color, Chief reveals how Gene embraced his identity and broke barriers along the way.
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This book is an invitation to walk alongside Gene Locklear through the highs, the challenges, and the soulful triumphs of a man who refused to be defined by a single chapter. Jay and Gene welcome you to experience the full richness of a life lived across three landscapes.
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Artwork by Gene
Gene Locklear: A Legacy in Paint and Spirit
Gene Locklear, a member of the Lumbee Indian Nation, is celebrated for his vibrant and soulful paintings that honor Native American heritage, Western landscapes, and iconic sports figures. His work spans oils, acrylics, and pencil, blending realism, impressionism, and abstract styles with a deeply personal reverence for the natural world.
Art in Historic Halls
Locklear’s artistic journey has taken him from Major League Baseball to the halls of American power. His paintings have been displayed in the White House during President Gerald Ford’s administration and are part of the permanent collections at the Pentagon and the Bureau of Indian Affairs—a testament to the cultural and historical significance of his work.
Commissioned Excellence
From portraits of Tiger Woods and Ted Williams to murals for the NFL and PGA, Locklear’s art continues to resonate across generations and institutions. His pieces are not only visually striking but also carry the spirit and stories of Native American identity and pride.
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