In South Florida during the 1950’s through 1980’s, 26 self-taught African American artists grew to be known as The Highwaymen. GardensArt in Palm Beach Gardens is hosting an exhibit by The Highwaymen.  The exhibit will run through March 4, 2021.  They spent their weekends selling their artwork out of their cars because during segregation, African American artists were not permitted to sell their artwork in galleries.

As an additional source of income for those who might otherwise be working in citrus groves or packinghouses, these artists painted.  Unable to get canvas, these artists painted the oil paintings on old construction supplies, like Upson board. Upson board was an affordable fiberboard comprised of recycled wood.

The scenes the Highwaymen depict suggest serenity and undisturbed wilderness. Beaches, marshes, water birds, and poinciana and palm trees are among the most used imagery. It is estimated that the Highwaymen painted as many as 200,000 pieces, selling them for anywhere from $25 to $45 apiece. Today, the highly desirable works and can sell for thousands of dollars each.

The Highwaymen, all twenty-six artists, were inducted as a group into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Visit the GardensArt exhibit between the hours of 8:00am – 5:00pm.  Cost of admission is FREE.  Head on over to www.pbgfl.com for more information.