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Al Black initially joined the Highwaymen as a salesman, marketing and selling the group’s artwork to businesses and homeowners across Florida. Eventually, he became an accomplished artist himself. Black’s style is characterized by bright...
Al Black’s story is one of remarkable talent, resilience, and reinvention, making him one of the most fascinating members of the legendary Florida Highwaymen. Born in 1947 in the deep South, in Mississippi, Black’s early years shaped his tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit. In the 1960s, seeking new opportunities, he moved to Fort Pierce, Florida, a town that would serve as the epicenter of the Highwaymen movement and transform his life forever.
From Typewriters to Masterpieces
Al Black began honing his skills in sales while working for a typewriter company. His natural charisma and knack for persuasion set him apart, but it was a chance encounter with Alfred Hair, a founding member of the Florida Highwaymen, that changed his trajectory. Hair recognized Black’s raw talent for selling and invited him in 1964 to join the Highwaymen, a collective of self-taught African American artists who defied racial barriers to create and sell vibrant landscape paintings of Florida’s natural beauty.
Black quickly became the group’s most prolific and successful salesman. It was said that he never returned empty-handed—every painting he carried found a buyer. His dynamic and unorthodox sales methods became legendary. He often packed his car with freshly painted works and traveled across Florida, stopping at offices, motels, and businesses to sell the paintings directly to owners and managers. His charismatic pitch and genuine enthusiasm for the art were nearly irresistible, and he became instrumental in spreading the Highwaymen’s work far and wide.
Training a Legacy
Al Black’s success didn’t stop with his own efforts; he became a mentor to the other Highwaymen, teaching them how to market their art. He refined their approach to emphasize confidence, storytelling, and persistence—skills that empowered the group to thrive in an era when systemic racism often denied African Americans access to traditional art galleries. His salesmanship not only brought financial success to the Highwaymen but also played a crucial role in establishing their enduring legacy.
The Artist Emerges
While Black’s primary role was as a salesman, he began to explore his own creative abilities. Immersed in the vibrant artistic environment of the Highwaymen, he observed their techniques, absorbed their insights, and began painting his own works. Over time, he developed a style that reflected the lush, tropical beauty of Florida’s landscapes, with bold strokes and vivid colors that captured the spirit of the Highwaymen movement. His paintings became sought after, and he continued to evolve as both a painter and a salesman.
A Turning Point: Prison and Redemption
In 1997, Al Black’s life took a dramatic turn when he was sentenced to prison for forgery and fraud. Facing this profound challenge, he found redemption through his art. While incarcerated, he was encouraged by prison officials to paint murals, and his work transformed the walls of the prison into vibrant depictions of Florida’s natural beauty. These murals not only provided a therapeutic outlet for Black but also brought a sense of hope and beauty to the prison environment.
During this time, the Florida Highwaymen experienced a resurgence of interest. Art collectors and historians began to recognize the cultural and historical significance of their work, and Black’s contributions as both a salesman and artist were celebrated. In 2004, while still in prison, he was inducted into the Florida Artist Hall of Fame—an honor that cemented his place in the annals of American art history.
A New Chapter
Al Black was released from prison in 2006, and he described the experience as life-saving. He re-emerged with a renewed focus on his art, dedicating himself to painting and sharing the story of the Highwaymen. Today, he continues to create stunning works of art that reflect Florida’s landscapes and his own journey of resilience and redemption. His story is not only a testament to his extraordinary talent but also a reminder of the transformative power of art.
Legacy
Al Black’s contributions to the Florida Highwaymen are immeasurable. As the group’s most successful salesman, he spread their art to audiences who might never have encountered it otherwise, laying the foundation for the Highwaymen’s enduring legacy. As an artist, his paintings capture the essence of Florida’s beauty and his own unique perspective. His journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and the power of creativity to overcome adversity.
Al Black’s life is a rich tapestry of art, ingenuity, and resilience—a story that continues to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
Alfred Hair is credited with founding the Highwaymen art movement. A student of A.E. “Bean” Backus, Hair brought a fresh approach to landscape art by using bold colors and expressive brushstrokes. He encouraged other...
Alfred Hair’s story is one of ambition, creativity, and profound cultural impact. As the cofounder of the Florida Highwaymen alongside Harold Newton, Hair not only helped create a movement but also forged a path that allowed African American artists to thrive in the face of systemic barriers. Born in 1941 in Fort Pierce, Florida, Hair’s journey to artistic greatness and entrepreneurship was both inspirational and tragically short-lived.
The Birth of the Florida Highwaymen
With his newfound skills and determination, Alfred Hair teamed up with Harold Newton, another talented African American artist, to form what would later be known as the Florida Highwaymen. Hair and Newton shared a common vision: to produce and sell their art on their own terms. They prioritized a revolutionary strategy that would set them apart from traditional art circles.
Hair was the mastermind behind their innovative approach. He pioneered the idea of painting quickly and efficiently, enabling the group to create a high volume of works in a short period of time. This method allowed them to sell their pieces at affordable prices, making their art accessible to everyday people rather than just elite collectors. They painted vivid scenes of Florida’s landscapes—majestic palm trees, glowing sunsets, serene beaches, and lush marshes—that captured the essence of the state’s natural beauty.
Because segregation laws in Florida at the time excluded African Americans from selling their art in traditional galleries, Hair devised an alternative: they would sell directly to the public. Members of the group would load their cars with freshly painted works and sell them door-to-door, at businesses, or along highways, earning them the name “Highwaymen.” This strategy turned a barrier into an opportunity, creating an entirely new market for their art.
A Legacy of Entrepreneurship and Empowerment
Hair’s visionary approach extended beyond his own success; he saw the Highwaymen as a collective that could uplift others. His charisma and leadership inspired many other African American artists to join the group. He mentored them not only in painting techniques but also in the art of salesmanship, teaching them how to present their work and connect with customers. Under Hair’s guidance, the Florida Highwaymen grew to include 26 members, all united by their shared goal of creating and selling art in defiance of the limitations imposed by racism and segregation.
Hair’s model was groundbreaking, combining creativity with business acumen. By focusing on speed and volume, the Highwaymen were able to make a living from their art while simultaneously creating a distinctive style that would become a hallmark of mid-20th-century Florida art.
Tragic End, Enduring Legacy
Alfred Hair’s life was tragically cut short on August 9, 1970, when he was shot and killed during an argument at a bar. He was only 29 years old. His untimely death shocked the art community and those who knew him, but his influence did not fade. The Highwaymen continued to paint and sell their works, honoring the techniques, methods, and vision Hair had instilled in them.
His legacy grew even larger as the Highwaymen’s work gained recognition decades later. In the 1990s, art collectors and historians rediscovered the Florida Highwaymen, leading to a resurgence of interest in their paintings. In 2004, Alfred Hair, alongside the other members of the Highwaymen, was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame, cementing his place in art history as a trailblazer who defied the odds and transformed the art world.
Impact on Art and Culture
Alfred Hair’s contributions to the art world go far beyond his paintings. He was a pioneer who showed that art could be both beautiful and accessible, and that creativity could overcome societal barriers. His emphasis on fast production was not just a practical solution—it became a defining characteristic of the Highwaymen style, with its bold, expressive strokes and vibrant colors capturing Florida’s landscapes with immediacy and emotion.
Through his work and leadership, Hair empowered an entire generation of African American artists to create opportunities for themselves in a system that tried to exclude them. His story is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and the enduring impact of art as a force for change.
A Vision That Lives On
Today, Alfred Hair’s influence can be seen in the thriving legacy of the Florida Highwaymen. Their works are celebrated in museums, galleries, and private collections around the world, and they remain a symbol of resilience, ingenuity, and the timeless beauty of Florida’s landscapes. Though his life was tragically short, Alfred Hair’s impact continues to inspire artists and entrepreneurs, proving that a single visionary can leave a legacy that transcends generations.
Carnell Smith was one of the less well-known Highwaymen, but his work holds a special place among collectors. His paintings often featured tranquil scenes of marshes and rivers, capturing the essence of...
Carnell Smith’s life is a powerful story of resilience, transformation, and artistic contribution. Born in 1950 in Buckley, West Virginia, Smith’s early years were marked by tragedy and hardship. His father, in a fit of drunken rage, murdered his mother, leaving young Carnell and his siblings to navigate life without their parents. Despite this devastating beginning, Smith’s story is one of perseverance, as he found solace and purpose through art and the support of those who believed in him.
A Troubled Start and a Path to Healing
After the traumatic loss of his parents, Carnell Smith relocated to Fort Pierce, Florida, where he attended Lincoln Park Academy. It was there that a teacher introduced him to art, providing a creative outlet that offered peace and purpose amidst the turmoil of his early life. Through art, Smith discovered a way to process his emotions and express himself, laying the foundation for a future intertwined with creativity and community.
A Connection to the Florida Highwaymen
Smith’s connection to the Florida Highwaymen came through his older sister, who married Alfred Hair, one of the group’s founders and a driving force behind their success. This familial tie brought Smith into the orbit of the Highwaymen, a collective of African American artists who created vibrant depictions of Florida’s landscapes while navigating the racial and economic challenges of the mid-20th century.
Under Hair’s mentorship, Smith began contributing to the group in various roles. He started by building frames for the paintings, a critical task that ensured their art could be transported and sold. Over time, Smith joined Al Black on his legendary sales trips, traveling across Florida to sell paintings directly to customers. These experiences exposed him to the broader world of the Highwaymen, allowing him to observe the inner workings of their art and sales process.
From Supporting Role to Artist
Smith’s artistic contributions began modestly, painting backgrounds for Alfred Hair’s works. This role not only honed his skills but also gave him insight into Hair’s techniques and creative vision. Following Hair’s tragic death in 1970, Smith continued to immerse himself in the Highwaymen’s artistic community. Inspired by Hair’s legacy and the collective’s enduring spirit, Smith began creating his own paintings. His work embraced the signature Highwaymen style—quickly rendered yet strikingly beautiful depictions of Florida’s natural landscapes, from serene rivers to glowing sunsets.
Smith’s journey from a background contributor to an independent artist speaks to his dedication and the influence of the Highwaymen as a collective. Each brushstroke carried not only his personal story but also the enduring legacy of a group that overcame societal barriers to create timeless art.
A Late Renaissance and Legacy
Like many members of the Highwaymen, Carnell Smith was initially unaware of the group’s resurgence in popularity during the 1990s. As art collectors and historians rediscovered the Highwaymen’s work, demand for their paintings grew, and their contributions to American art were finally recognized. Although Smith joined the movement later than some of his peers, he was able to witness and enjoy the newfound appreciation for the Highwaymen’s artistry and significance.
Smith continued to paint and share his story until his passing in 2015. His life serves as a testament to the power of art to heal, inspire, and transform. From a childhood marked by tragedy to his integral role within one of the most unique and impactful art movements in American history, Carnell Smith’s journey is one of resilience and creative triumph.
Carnell Smith’s Legacy
Carnell Smith’s story is one of perseverance, showing how art can become a lifeline and a legacy. As a member of the Florida Highwaymen, he contributed not only through his paintings but also through his support of the collective, helping to spread their work far and wide. His background-building role, sales trips with Al Black, and eventual emergence as a painter reflect his multifaceted contributions to the group.
Although his path to prominence was not without its challenges, Smith’s life stands as a reminder that creativity can flourish even in the face of adversity. His work, like that of the other Highwaymen, continues to inspire and captivate, keeping alive the spirit of a movement that transformed the art world and left an indelible mark on Florida’s cultural history.
Charles Walker was known for his detailed and emotive paintings of Florida landscapes. His work showcased an incredible attention to natural elements like moss-laden oaks, quiet backroads, and reflections on water. Walker’s dedication to...
Charles Walker’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a unique approach to art that set him apart from his peers in the Florida Highwaymen movement. Born in 1945 in Fort Pierce, Florida, Walker showed an early affinity for art, beginning to draw and paint at the tender age of five. Over the course of his life, he transformed his childhood love for creativity into a remarkable career, leaving an indelible mark on Florida’s artistic landscape.
Early Beginnings and Artistic Inspiration
Charles Walker’s artistic journey began in his hometown of Fort Pierce, where he grew up surrounded by the vibrant beauty of Florida’s natural environment. His talent for art was nurtured during his time at Lincoln Park Academy, where his art teacher, Zanobia Jefferson, played a pivotal role in shaping his creative interests. Jefferson, a revered educator and mentor, not only cultivated Walker’s passion for art but also inspired other members of the Highwaymen, including Carnell Smith. Through Jefferson’s encouragement, Walker embraced his potential and began exploring art as both a skill and a form of expression.
Connection to the Florida Highwaymen
Walker’s entry into the Florida Highwaymen collective came through a family connection. His wife was the sister of Livingston Roberts, one of the core members of the group. This familial tie introduced Walker to the Highwaymen, a collective of African American artists who painted and sold vivid landscapes of Florida’s natural scenery during an era of segregation and limited opportunities. While many of the Highwaymen, including founders Alfred Hair and Harold Newton, focused on quick production to maximize sales, Walker took a different path.
A Deliberate Approach to Painting
Unlike his peers, who prioritized speed to create high volumes of art, Charles Walker embraced a meticulous and deliberate style of painting. He started painting landscapes in 1970 and became known for his painstaking attention to detail. Rather than adhering to the fast-painting techniques popularized by the Highwaymen, Walker often took weeks—or even months—to complete a single piece. This dedication to craftsmanship resulted in paintings that stood out for their depth, texture, and intricacy, earning him a reputation as one of the most refined artists in the group.
Walker’s decision to prioritize quality over quantity reflected his personal philosophy on art. While the other Highwaymen were focused on producing and selling paintings as quickly as possible to earn a living, Walker viewed his work as an enduring statement, taking the time to perfect each piece. His unique approach demonstrated that even within the collective identity of the Highwaymen, there was room for individuality and artistic exploration.
Recognition and Legacy
Charles Walker’s contributions to Florida’s art scene were formally recognized in 2004 when he was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame alongside other members of the Highwaymen. This honor celebrated his exceptional talent, his unique perspective as an artist, and his role in preserving and promoting the beauty of Florida’s landscapes. By the time of his induction, Walker’s work had gained widespread appreciation, both as part of the Highwaymen’s collective legacy and as a testament to his own singular vision.
Walker continued painting throughout his life, creating works that captured the timeless allure of Florida’s natural environment. His paintings, characterized by their rich detail and vibrant colors, serve as a lasting tribute to the state’s tropical beauty. His passing in 2022 marked the end of a remarkable journey, but his art lives on, cherished by collectors and celebrated as part of the enduring legacy of the Florida Highwaymen.
A Lasting Impact
Charles Walker’s life and work highlight the diversity within the Highwaymen collective. While he shared their goal of celebrating Florida’s landscapes, his slower, more deliberate process set him apart and brought a new dimension to the group’s legacy. His dedication to his craft reminds us that art is not only about speed or quantity but also about the passion and vision that goes into each brushstroke.
Walker’s story is a testament to perseverance, individuality, and the power of creativity to transcend circumstances. As part of the Florida Highwaymen, he contributed to a groundbreaking movement that defied societal barriers, and his meticulous style added a richness to their collective story. Today, Charles Walker’s paintings stand as timeless masterpieces, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his art and the beauty of Florida’s natural landscapes.
Mary Ann Carroll was the only female member of the original Highwaymen group. Known for her vibrant and captivating depictions of Florida’s natural beauty, Carroll’s work often featured vivid sunsets, royal poinciana trees, and serene...
Mary Ann Carroll’s life is a story of resilience, talent, and breaking barriers in a male-dominated world. As the only female member of the 26-member Florida Highwaymen, she carved out her place in the art world and earned the title “The First Lady of the Highwaymen.” Carroll’s journey showcases her extraordinary ability to balance her roles as a trailblazing artist, mother of seven, and pastor, all while navigating the additional challenges of being an African American woman in the segregated South.
A Passion for Art From an Early Age
Born in 1940, Mary Ann Carroll demonstrated an early interest in art. Her creative spark was kindled further when, at the age of 16, she encountered Harold Newton, one of the founding members of the Florida Highwaymen, painting on a sidewalk. Inspired by his work and determination, Carroll began exploring her own artistic potential. Two years later, at the age of 18, she joined the Highwaymen collective, selling her paintings alongside the group and solidifying her place as the only woman in a pioneering movement.
Breaking Barriers as the “Highwaywoman”
Carroll often referred to herself as a “Highwaywoman,” a term that reflected both her individuality and her association with the Florida Highwaymen. As an African American woman in the 1960s, she faced a double burden of discrimination—not only because of her race but also because of her gender. Carroll often encountered challenges when trying to enter establishments to sell her paintings, as societal norms of the time made it even harder for women to navigate public spaces.
Despite these obstacles, Carroll was determined to succeed. Known for her strength and self-reliance, she carried a pistol to protect herself in case a dangerous situation arose during her travels. Her tenacity and resolve made her a respected and vital member of the Highwaymen, and her contributions to the group’s legacy cannot be overstated.
A Unique Artistic Voice
Mary Ann Carroll’s paintings featured the bold, vibrant landscapes that became synonymous with the Highwaymen’s work. Her depictions of Florida’s natural beauty, from majestic Royal Poinciana trees to serene river scenes, were imbued with a distinct perspective that reflected her individuality. Like her peers, Carroll embraced the Highwaymen’s fast-painting technique, creating works quickly to maximize output and sales. However, her art carried a unique elegance and strength, characteristics that mirrored her personality.
Her work resonated with buyers, allowing her to provide for her seven children while pursuing her passion. Carroll balanced the demands of motherhood and her art career with remarkable grace, embodying resilience and resourcefulness.
A Life of Faith and Art
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Mary Ann Carroll was a deeply spiritual person who became a pastor later in life. Her faith played a central role in her journey, guiding her through personal and professional challenges. While she dedicated herself to her ministry, she never stopped painting. Art remained a cornerstone of her life, a medium through which she expressed her creativity, faith, and connection to Florida’s landscapes.
A Historic Invitation
Mary Ann Carroll’s contributions to art and culture gained widespread recognition over the years. In 2011, she received a significant honor when she was invited to the First Lady’s Luncheon by First Lady Michelle Obama. Carroll presented the First Lady with one of her signature paintings of a Royal Poinciana tree, a moment that brought her immense joy and pride. Upon her return to Florida, she spoke of the experience with enthusiasm, reflecting on how far she had come as an artist and individual.
Legacy of the “Highwaywoman”
Mary Ann Carroll’s story is a testament to perseverance, strength, and the power of creativity to overcome barriers. As the only female member of the Florida Highwaymen, she not only stood shoulder to shoulder with her male counterparts but also left an indelible mark on the group’s history. Her paintings, filled with the beauty and vibrancy of Florida’s landscapes, continue to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts, ensuring her legacy endures.
Carroll’s life serves as an inspiration, showing that talent and determination can triumph over adversity. As a mother, pastor, and artist, she broke boundaries and redefined what it meant to be a “Highwaywoman,” cementing her place as a trailblazer in American art.
Sam Newton, another prominent Highwayman, was known for his meticulous attention to detail. His paintings often captured the golden hues of sunrise and sunset, with an almost photographic realism. Newton’s ability to bring out the...
Robert Butler was a self-made artist whose journey to prominence exemplified talent, perseverance, and a deep connection to Florida’s natural beauty. Born in 1943 in Baxley, Georgia, Butler moved with his family to Florida at the age of 4, where he spent much of his childhood immersed in the outdoors. His early interest in hunting gave him an intimate understanding of Florida’s wilderness, an insight that would later define his artistry and set him apart as one of the state’s most celebrated painters.
A Unique Perspective on Nature
From a young age, Robert Butler demonstrated a keen appreciation for the natural world. His experiences hunting in Florida’s diverse ecosystems provided him with firsthand knowledge of the state’s flora and fauna. This deep familiarity translated into his art, as he was able to capture the intricate details of the wilderness with remarkable precision and authenticity. Butler’s paintings stood out for their ability to evoke the untamed beauty of Florida’s landscapes, from cypress swamps and marshes to forests and coastal vistas.
A Self-Taught Artist with a Distinct Path
Unlike many of the Florida Highwaymen, Butler was not directly influenced by the group. He developed his own style of fast-painting and selling, a method born of necessity as he worked to establish himself as an artist. Butler’s approach combined speed with a meticulous eye for detail, allowing him to produce works that were both prolific and exceptionally crafted. His paintings often featured Florida’s wildlife—herons, deer, alligators, and other native species—set against dramatic backdrops of skies and waterways.
By the 1990s, Robert Butler had become one of Florida’s most prominent artists, achieving success largely on his own. While the Highwaymen gained recognition as a collective, Butler’s individual efforts garnered him a loyal following and financial success well before many of the Highwaymen reached similar heights. His ability to market and sell his art elevated him to the forefront of Florida’s art scene.
The Master of Florida’s Ecosystems
One of Robert Butler’s most remarkable achievements was his dedication to capturing the entirety of Florida’s natural environment. Over the course of his career, he painted every ecosystem in the state, from the Everglades to the pine flatwoods, showcasing the diversity and richness of Florida’s landscapes. This extraordinary body of work not only highlighted his technical skill but also served as a tribute to the state’s ecological heritage. Butler’s paintings offered viewers a window into the wild heart of Florida, inspiring appreciation and conservation.
A Gallery of His Own
In contrast to the Highwaymen’s door-to-door sales and reliance on quick transactions, Robert Butler took a more traditional route to success. By the 1990s, he owned and operated his own gallery in Lakeland, Florida, where he sold his works for thousands of dollars. This was a notable achievement, as most other Highwaymen had not yet reached the same level of recognition or financial success. Butler’s gallery became a hub for collectors and art enthusiasts, solidifying his reputation as one of Florida’s premier landscape artists.
A Legacy in Paint
Robert Butler’s passing in 2014 marked the end of a prolific and influential career, but his legacy endures in the countless works he created. Known for his ability to bring Florida’s wilderness to life, Butler left behind a visual archive of the state’s natural beauty, preserved in his paintings for future generations to admire. His art serves not only as a testament to his talent but also as a reminder of the importance of protecting Florida’s ecosystems.
A Florida Icon
Robert Butler’s story is a testament to the power of individuality and determination. Though not officially part of the Florida Highwaymen, he shared their entrepreneurial spirit and love for Florida’s landscapes. His success as a self-taught artist who rose to prominence on his own terms makes him a singular figure in Florida’s artistic history. Butler’s dedication to his craft and his ability to paint the wilderness with unmatched detail have earned him a lasting place among Florida’s most celebrated artists.
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