The Highwaymen Artists: Florida's Treasure Trove of African American Art

Painting by Harold Newton (not for sale)

The Beginnings

In the 1950s and 60s, a group of 26 African American artists emerged in Florida, later known as the Highwaymen. These artists, who were mostly self-taught, broke racial and economic barriers by creating and selling landscape paintings. The journey of the Highwaymen began in the segregated South, where opportunities for African American artists were scarce.

Harold Newton and Alfred Hair were two pivotal figures in the group. Alfred Hair, a charismatic young man, received formal art training from A. E. "Bean" Backus, a prominent white artist in Florida known for his serene landscapes. Backus's guidance and influence were instrumental in shaping Hair's style and technique. Hair, in turn, shared his knowledge with other aspiring artists in his community.

What They Painted

The Highwaymen artists are celebrated for their vibrant and evocative depictions of Florida's natural beauty. Their paintings typically feature:

• Swamps and Marshes: These works often capture the mystique of Florida's wetlands, with their dense foliage and tranquil waters.

• Sunrises and Sunsets: The artists skillfully portray the dramatic colors of the sky, reflecting on water and landscape.

• Royal Poinciana Trees: The bright red blooms of these trees are a recurring motif, adding a splash of color to their scenes.

• Seascapes and Beaches: Florida's coastline, with its rolling waves and sandy shores, is another favorite subject.

• Wildlife: While less common, some paintings include glimpses of Florida's diverse wildlife, such as herons and egrets.
  

Using inexpensive materials like Upson board and house paint, they created hundreds of paintings each week, selling them door-to-door or from the trunks of their cars along highways, hence the name "Highwaymen."

Rise in Popularity and Value

For decades, the Highwaymen's work was appreciated locally but didn't receive significant recognition in the broader art world. That changed in the 1990s when collectors and art historians began to rediscover and reappraise their contributions. This renewed interest led to a dramatic increase in the value of their paintings.

Today, the works of the Highwaymen are highly sought after, with many pieces fetching tens of thousands of dollars at auctions. Several factors contribute to this craze:

1. Historical Significance: As African American artists who overcame racial barriers, their story adds a compelling narrative to their art.

2. Unique Style: Their paintings capture a nostalgic and romanticized view of Florida's landscapes, resonating with both art collectors and those with a fondness for Florida's natural beauty.

3. Limited Availability: Given the artists' backgrounds and the conditions under which they worked, many of the original paintings are considered rare treasures.

4. Cultural Heritage: The Highwaymen have been recognized as part of Florida's cultural and artistic heritage, further boosting their desirability.
   

The Highwaymen artists' legacy is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of art to transcend social and economic barriers. Their paintings continue to enchant viewers with their vivid colors and serene depictions of Florida's landscapes, and the growing appreciation for their work ensures that their contributions to American art will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.