As of now, there are only a few Highwaymen artists left. Over the years, many of the original members of the group have passed away or retired from painting. The group started with 26 members, all of whom were African American artists living in the Fort Pierce area of Florida. They faced many challenges and obstacles during their time, but their determination and talent allowed them to leave a lasting impact on the art world.
The Highwaymen artists were known for their vibrant and atmospheric landscape paintings, often depicting the natural beauty of Florida. They would paint these scenes quickly and in bulk, selling their artwork door-to-door, out of their cars, or at local businesses. Their paintings were usually done on inexpensive materials such as Upson board, and they used bright colors to capture the essence of the Florida landscape.
The group gained recognition and success during a time when African American artists faced significant discrimination and limited opportunities. They were largely self-taught and did not have access to traditional art galleries or institutions. Despite these challenges, the Highwaymen artists managed to sell their paintings to a wide range of buyers, including hotels, offices, and individuals who appreciated their unique style.
Their paintings were affordable and accessible to many people, making them a popular choice for those looking to decorate their homes or offices with a piece of Florida’s natural beauty. The Highwaymen artists often worked together, traveling in groups to sell their artwork. They would set up their easels along the roadside or in parking lots, painting and selling their creations to passersby.
As time went on, some of the Highwaymen artists gained recognition and success beyond Florida. Their work began to be appreciated by collectors and art enthusiasts outside of their local community. Today, their paintings are highly sought after and can be found in galleries and private collections throughout the country.
While the exact number of Highwaymen artists still living is not readily available, it is known that only a few of the original members are still active in the art world. Many have passed away, leaving behind a legacy of talent and resilience. The Highwaymen artists have left an indelible mark on the art world, not only for their unique style and subject matter but also for their ability to overcome adversity and succeed as African American artists in a segregated and discriminatory time. Their contributions to the art world will continue to be celebrated and remembered for years to come.