Who Were the Highwaymen
The Florida Highwaymen were a group of 26 African American artists from Fort Pierce who painted vibrant Florida landscape scenes from the 1950s through the 1980s. Denied access to galleries during the segregation era, they sold their paintings directly to businesses and individuals from the trunks of their cars along US-1 and other Florida highways. They are now recognized as some of Florida's most important artists.
The Art
Highwaymen paintings depict idealized Florida landscapes including palm trees, ocean sunsets, rivers, and tropical foliage. The paintings are characterized by vivid colors and bold compositions. Original Highwaymen paintings now sell for hundreds to thousands of dollars, with some museum-quality pieces valued much higher. Several surviving Highwaymen continue to paint and sell work.
Where to See Highwaymen Art
The A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery in Fort Pierce is the primary museum dedicated to the Highwaymen legacy. The Orange County Regional History Center in Orlando has Highwaymen works. The Elliott Museum in Stuart displays pieces. Several surviving artists maintain studios in Fort Pierce where visitors can meet them and purchase original works.
Art Trail Group Trips
BusBrother provides group transportation for art enthusiasts visiting Highwaymen-related sites along the Treasure Coast. A day trip from Orlando to Fort Pierce and Stuart combining museum visits, artist studio tours, and beach time makes a culturally enriching group outing.
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