7 Shocking Facts About Terry Crews' Paintings And Secret Design House (AMEN & AMEN)
Few celebrities possess a career as wildly diverse as Terry Crews, yet his most surprising and enduring passion is often overshadowed by his roles as an action star, comedian, and former NFL linebacker. As of late 2024 and heading into 2025, the world is finally recognizing Crews not just as an actor, but as a serious, highly accomplished artist and industrial designer whose work is showcased on an international stage.
The image of the muscular, energetic host of America's Got Talent sketching a photorealistic portrait or designing a contemporary furniture piece seems almost paradoxical, but it is the core of his identity. Crews’ artistic journey began long before Hollywood, rooted in a formal education that now manifests in a high-end design house and a unique body of artwork that challenges the public's perception of the multi-hyphenate star.
Terry Crews: The Full Profile (Actor, Athlete, Artist, Designer)
Terry Alan Crews is an American polymath whose career spans professional sports, television, film, and the arts. His life story is a testament to the power of creative discipline, proving that passion and talent can thrive in seemingly disparate fields. Below is a detailed profile of the man behind the canvas and the camera:
- Full Name: Terry Alan Crews
- Born: July 30, 1968, in Flint, Michigan
- Education & Artistry Roots:
- Received an art scholarship to the prestigious Interlochen Center for the Arts as a teenager.
- Attended Western Michigan University on a football scholarship, where he majored in Art.
- His original career aspiration was to be an animation artist or work in special effects.
- Athletic Career: Drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the 11th round of the 1991 NFL Draft. He played for several teams, including the Rams, San Diego Chargers, Washington Redskins, and the Philadelphia Eagles, before retiring in 1997.
- Acting Career Highlights:
- Julius Rock on the sitcom Everybody Hates Chris.
- Sergeant Terry Jeffords on the comedy series Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
- Roles in films like The Expendables, White Chicks, and Idiocracy.
- Current Artistic Endeavor: Founder of the design house AMEN & AMEN, focusing on industrial design, furniture, and supporting other creatives.
- Activism: Known as a prominent advocate for men's rights and a voice against sexual harassment.
From NFL Star to Photorealist Painter: The Roots of Crews' Artistry
Long before he was shouting "POWERRR!" in Old Spice commercials or serving justice in the 99th Precinct, Terry Crews was a dedicated, classically trained artist. His journey into the visual arts is not a hobby but a foundational element of his life, one that provided him with a vital source of income and mental discipline during his early, lean years.
Crews' early artistic output is primarily characterized by photorealism and a strong focus on portraiture and sports-related subjects. This style demands immense precision, patience, and technical skill, which he honed during his time as an art major. While playing in the NFL, Crews would use his downtime to create detailed, custom paintings and sketches for his teammates to earn extra money. This was not just a side hustle; it was a necessary craft.
His paintings often depict dynamic, muscular figures—a natural subject for the former athlete—but his true talent shines in his portrait work. He has shared examples of his sketches and paintings, including a phenomenal portrait of Simon Cowell, demonstrating his ability to capture intricate human emotion and detail with pencil and paint. The level of detail in his work is what often surprises the public, as it contrasts sharply with his boisterous on-screen persona. This dedication to craftsmanship formed the bedrock of his career, teaching him the discipline required to succeed in any field.
AMEN & AMEN: Terry Crews' Pivot to Industrial Design and Furniture
The most current and exciting chapter in Terry Crews' artistic life is his pivot from traditional painting to the world of industrial design. Recognizing that his artistic vision extended beyond a two-dimensional canvas, Crews established his own design house, AMEN & AMEN. This venture is not merely a vanity project; it is a serious commitment to the design world, focusing on furniture, decor, and supporting other creatives in art, music, and fashion.
The name "AMEN & AMEN" reflects his faith and his belief in the power of affirmation and creation. It signals a bold, confident entry into a competitive field. His work in design has been met with critical acclaim, particularly his collaboration with the prestigious Bernhardt Design.
The Becca Lounge Chair and Global Recognition
One of the most notable pieces from his design portfolio is the Becca Lounge Chair. This contemporary furniture collection was not just a small-scale project; it was presented at major international events, including the renowned Salone del Mobile (Milan Furniture Fair). Presenting at such a high-profile global stage solidifies Crews' standing as a legitimate figure in the design community.
His furniture designs, like his paintings, emphasize clean lines, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the materials. Crews views the design world as a "family," and his involvement is driven by a desire to bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to the industry. This move demonstrates that for Crews, art is not static; it is an ever-evolving form of expression that can be functional, beautiful, and accessible.
The Philosophy of Crews' Creativity: Why Art is Everything
For Terry Crews, art is not a separate entity from his acting or his athleticism; it is the central pillar that informs everything he does. He has often stated that art is "everything" for him, providing the blueprint for his success. This philosophy is based on several core tenets:
- Discipline and Patience: The meticulous nature of photorealism taught him the patience and focus required to endure the grueling schedules of the NFL and the competitive nature of Hollywood.
- Breaking Stereotypes: Crews actively uses his art to challenge the narrow stereotypes often placed on Black men, particularly those with a background in professional sports. He demonstrates that strength and sensitivity, athleticism and artistry, can coexist in one person.
- Craftsmanship Over Celebrity: Despite his fame, Crews insists on being recognized for the quality of his craft. He values the integrity of the design and the execution of the art piece over the celebrity status that comes with it. He seeks to support genuine talent through AMEN & AMEN, elevating the work of dedicated creatives.
As we move through 2025, Terry Crews continues to leverage his platform to highlight his artistic endeavors. While he may not be hosting a traditional gallery show of his paintings, his presence at major events like CES 2025 and continued work with Bernhardt Design keep his creative output in the spotlight. His legacy is being cemented not just on the screen, but in the permanent, tangible form of his paintings and the sophisticated furniture designs that now bear the mark of AMEN & AMEN.
The story of Terry Crews’ paintings is a powerful reminder that true talent cannot be confined to a single box. Whether he is sketching a detailed portrait, designing a sleek lounge chair, or acting in a blockbuster film, his artistic discipline remains the driving force behind his extraordinary, multi-faceted career.
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