I first heard about the Highwaymen during a play at the Asolo Theater. The story left a profound impression on me, and since I live close to Selby Gardens, where their exhibition is currently being held, I felt compelled to share this experience with you. These extraordinary artworks are also on display at our City Hall, and are worth seeing.
Despite my limited knowledge of art, I was immediately drawn to the captivating landscapes in the Highwaymen's paintings. These scenes, bursting with vibrant energy, seemed to leap off the canvas. The light in their work is particularly striking, infusing each piece with warmth and vitality.
The Highwaymen, a group of African American artists, created these breathtaking landscape paintings from the 1950s to the 1980s. Their works depict the natural beauty of Florida's wetlands, palm-lined beaches, and vivid sunsets. Even facing racial discrimination and economic hardships, they built a significant legacy in the art world. Their ability to capture the essence of Florida's natural beauty is unparalleled, and their paintings offer a glimpse into a world of unspoiled nature.
I encourage you to visit the exhibition at Selby Gardens downtown campus (selby.org). While photography is not permitted there, you can freely visit City Hall to enjoy the artwork and take a few photos. This dual-venue approach provides a comprehensive experience of the Highwaymen's work. At Selby Gardens, you can immerse yourself in the serene environment that complements the art, while City Hall offers a more formal setting where you can appreciate the details of each painting up close.
The origins of the Highwaymen trace back to the town of Fort Pierce, where a young African American man named Alfred Hair studied under A.E. "Bean" Backus, a prominent white landscape artist. Inspired by Backus’s style and recognizing the potential to make a living from art, Hair and Harold Newton started painting and selling their works. These artists often used inexpensive materials such as Upson board and quick, bold brush strokes, allowing them to produce paintings rapidly. This approach enabled them to create a high volume of art, which they sold directly to businesses, offices, and tourists from the trunks of their cars, hence the name "Highwaymen."
Their entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering determination allowed them to overcome the challenges they faced due to racial segregation and limited opportunities in the art world. The Highwaymen's story is a testament to the power of resilience and creativity. They produced an estimated 200,000 paintings, making their art a significant part of Florida's cultural heritage. Their work resonated with buyers who longed for scenes of unspoiled nature, and their contributions have since been recognized and celebrated.
In the 1990s, their work gained renewed attention, leading to exhibitions and greater appreciation. In 2004, the original group of 26 artists was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame. Today, the Highwaymen are celebrated for their entrepreneurial spirit and artistic contributions, representing a poignant chapter in American art history.
Visiting the Highwaymen exhibition is a must for those looking to explore this vibrant chapter of Florida’s art scene. The blend of their artistic talent and the rich history behind their work makes for an inspiring and educational experience.
For more details about the Highwaymen and their work, you can explore these resources:
Florida Highwaymen Paintings (https://floridahighwaymenpaintings.com)
Photos: iruphotos.com
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