Earline Payne was born in Oklahoma and was raised in both Texas and California.  She was married to James Barnes and because of his career in the military, moved and traveled for over twenty-five years. He retired in 1972 and they permanently settled in El Paso. Barnes began art classes in the early 70's studying under Carl Cogar.  After a few years of lessons, Cogar urged her to teach her own classes.   She first taught to children and senior citizens for the El Paso Parks and Recreation Department.  After a few years, her talent in demand, she began teaching workshops around the country.  She taught art for over twenty years. Barnes is most known for her impressionist style and was also known as a “colorist”.  She was a member of the El Paso Art Association, Knickerbocker Artists, Pastel Society of El Paso and the National League of American Pen Women.