In the 1950s, a group of self-taught African American artists began painting the wild beauty of Florida’s landscapes—without formal training, recognition, or access to art galleries. They became known as The Highwaymen, a name that would later become synonymous with determination, artistic freedom, and cultural preservation. What started as a grassroots movement selling art from […]
Continue ReadingWhen people think of Florida tourism, images of beaches, amusement parks, and palm-lined resorts often come to mind. But beyond the coastlines and roller coasters lies a cultural treasure that has quietly become part of Florida’s identity: the artwork of the Highwaymen. These self-taught African American artists began painting Florida’s landscapes in the mid-20th century, […]
Continue ReadingThe Florida Highwaymen began painting in the 1950s and 60s with one goal: to make a living through art at a time when Black artists had few opportunities in the mainstream market. Their strategy? Create bold, captivating Florida landscapes quickly and sell them directly to the public—often by knocking on doors or loading them into […]
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