Eric Lantrip was born in Memphis in 1951. His parents moved to Mississippi when he was five and ended up in Yazoo City where he completed his high school. It was the years growing up in Yazoo that influenced his outlook of the world the most. In 1969, Eric went college at The University of Southern Mississippi before his studies were interrupted by a two year stent in the Marine Corps.

While in the Marines, Eric was stationed in Washington, D.C., serving in the Honor Guard. He later was sent to Camp David, the Presidential Retreat, where he protected and served under President Richard M. Nixon. He return to his studies at USM after his discharge and graduated with a BFA in Drawing and Painting. He began a career as an Art Teacher and Coach in 1978, in Jackson, Mississippi.

In 1983, Eric attended the University of Mississippi and worked on an advanced degree. While at Ole Miss he continued to develop his style as an artist. He won an award for an illustration he did which was used for a University publication. He also designed a "dust jacket" cover for a book the Alumni Association published.

After earning his Master's in 1986, Eric returned to his teaching career in Jackson. During the summers, he worked part-time as a graphic designer for a local printing company in which he won an award for a brochure design he created. In 2009, Eric retired from the public school teaching arena and now teaches at a local private school. He currently lives by the Reservoir with his wife and two miniature dachshunds. He continues to paint and exhibit his work.