Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Bernard Hoyes demonstrated artistic abilities early. When he was trotted off to live with a great aunt in rural Jamaica, his exposure to the revival cults, ceremonies and rituals planted seeds deep within, that would manifest in his Art years later.

Hoyes's formal art studies began at Junior Art Centre at the Institute of Jamaica. At age 15 he left Jamaica for New York City. His lessons continued at the Art Students League and Vermont Academy. A heady combination of his drive to excel and the influence of the civil rights movement placed Hoyes at the helm of propelling the Academy to institute social and cultural programs. Upon graduation he was the first recipient of the Frederick Stanley Art Award and saw the launching of the school's first formal arts department.

During the 70's he, worked intensively on his “Rag Series” which symbolize, document and prophesied his journey from a struggling artist to one of prominence. In the early 80’s he began works that recall his Afro-Caribbean roots, specifically the rituals of African Spirituality and Christianity, since the Middle Passage.

His works have been featured in numerous television and film productions, and collected internationally. Oprah Winfrey, Natalie Cole, Steve Harvey, Keenan Ivory Wayans and the National Urban League are among his collectors. President Barack Obama has even been photographed in front of his work. His craft has been fêted internationally in galleries around the world.