The Florida Highwaymen were a group of 26 African American artists who emerged in the mid-1950s in Fort Pierce, Florida. These self-taught painters, including notable figures like Harold Newton and Alfred Hair, created vibrant and evocative landscapes of Florida’s natural beauty.
Who Were the Florida Highwaymen?
The Highwaymen were primarily young African American men (and one woman, Mary Ann Carroll) who faced significant racial and economic barriers during the segregation era. They were mentored by A.E. “Beanie” Backus, a prominent white landscape artist who encouraged them to paint Florida’s lush scenery. Despite their talent, mainstream galleries and art institutions in South Florida refused to represent them due to the color of their skin.
What Did They Do?
The Highwaymen developed a unique and efficient painting style, often referred to as “fast painting.” Using inexpensive materials like Upson board and house paint, they were able to quickly produce large quantities of art. Their paintings typically featured idyllic scenes of Florida’s coastlines, swamps, and forests, characterized by bold colors and dramatic lighting.
Unable to sell their work through traditional galleries, the Highwaymen took to the roads, selling their paintings door-to-door and from the trunks of their cars along Florida’s highways. This entrepreneurial spirit not only provided them with a livelihood but also brought their art directly to the people, bypassing the racial barriers of the time.
Cultural Significance
The Florida Highwaymen hold a special place in American art history for several reasons:
- Breaking Barriers: They challenged the racial and cultural barriers of the Jim Crow South, making a name for themselves in a segregated society.
- Economic Independence: By selling their art directly to the public, they asserted their economic independence and agency during a time when opportunities for African Americans were severely limited.
- Artistic Legacy: The Highwaymen created over 200,000 paintings, capturing the essence of mid-century Florida and preserving its natural beauty for future generations.
- Cultural Impact: Their work has been recognized as “The Last Great American Art Movement of the 20th Century,” and their paintings are now highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts.
In the 1990s, renewed interest in their work led to greater recognition and appreciation of their contributions to American art and culture. Today, the Florida Highwaymen are celebrated not only for their artistic achievements but also for their resilience and ingenuity in the face of adversity.
The story of the Florida Highwaymen is a testament to the power of art to transcend barriers and bring people together. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and art lovers alike.
At Flamingo Gardens for a limited engagement
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of “A Disappearing Landscape: Art of the Highwaymen,” an evocative gallery exhibit celebrating the distinctive artistry of the Highwaymen. The exhibit features a selection of paintings that highlight the region’s serene coastal vistas, sprawling wetlands, and sun-drenched horizons. Featuring a selection of rarely-seen works from private collection, on display in the Gallery.
Open January 4 – February 23, 2025, from 9:30 – 4:30 daily.
On display in the Gallery and included in admission.
Sources: Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org), National Museum of African American History and Culture (nmaahc.si.edu), State of Florida (dos.fl.gov), Florida Highwaymen Exhibit (floridahighwaymenexhibit.com)
