Introduction
Florida Highwaymen art is a unique style of painting that has been popular since the 1950s. The movement gained traction during the civil rights era and was made famous by the 26 African American artists who became known as the Florida Highwaymen. These men sold their artwork along highways and roadside stands from Fort Pierce to Miami, offering viewers colorful and vibrant scenes of the Florida landscape. Today, the work of these artists is highly sought after and can be found in numerous galleries, museums, and private collections around the world.
For those looking to add a piece of Florida Highwaymen art to their own collection, there are several options available. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways you can purchase Florida Highwaymen art, including interviews with a Highwaymen artist, visits to local galleries, reviews of online stores, and a guide to the history and value of the artwork.
Interview with a Florida Highwaymen Artist
To gain insight into the world of Florida Highwaymen art, we spoke with Alfred Hair, one of the original Highwaymen. He began painting when he was just 16 years old and went on to become one of the most famous members of the group. Here’s what he had to say about purchasing his artwork:
“When it comes to buying my work, I recommend doing your research first. You want to make sure you’re getting an authentic piece of art that’s been signed by me or another Highwaymen artist. I also suggest finding a reputable dealer or gallery that specializes in Florida Highwaymen art. They should be able to answer any questions you have and provide you with information about the artist, the painting, and its value.”
Alfred also shared some advice for those looking to invest in Florida Highwaymen art. He said, “The best way to ensure you’re getting a quality piece is to buy directly from the artist. I offer my paintings at shows and through private sales, so that’s always an option. Additionally, if you find a piece you like at a gallery or auction, do your due diligence and make sure it’s an original. Lastly, keep in mind that the value of the artwork will depend on the artist’s reputation and condition of the piece, so be sure to consider those factors when making a purchase.”
Visit to a Local Gallery Featuring Florida Highwaymen Art
If you’re interested in seeing some of the original Florida Highwaymen art, there are many galleries across the state that feature the work of these talented artists. We recently visited the Florida Folk Art Gallery in Fort Lauderdale, which offers a wide selection of Highwaymen paintings and prints.
The gallery is owned and operated by two brothers who specialize in folk art from the Sunshine State. They carry a variety of styles and mediums, including oil paints, watercolors, and photographs. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and they’re more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
When shopping in the gallery, it’s important to keep in mind that the artwork is priced according to the artist’s reputation, condition, and rarity. The prices can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, so be sure to set a budget before you start browsing. Additionally, the gallery offers payment plans and financing options, so don’t hesitate to ask about those if you need them.
Review of Online Stores Selling Florida Highwaymen Art
In addition to visiting local galleries, you can also purchase Florida Highwaymen art online. There are a number of reputable sites that sell these works, including Etsy, eBay, and Amazon. Each site has its pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase.
Etsy is a great place to find unique and handmade pieces of art. The site features a wide selection of Florida Highwaymen art, as well as other folk art styles. However, it’s important to note that each item is sold by an individual seller, so you’ll want to read the reviews carefully before making a purchase.
eBay and Amazon are both good options if you’re looking for a more affordable piece. Both sites offer a wide range of artwork, including prints and originals. However, you’ll want to be cautious when shopping on these sites, as there are often counterfeit pieces being sold as originals. Always make sure to check the seller’s ratings and reviews before buying anything.
Guide to the History and Value of Florida Highwaymen Art
In order to understand the true value of Florida Highwaymen art, it’s important to know the history behind it. The original Highwaymen were a group of 26 African American artists from Fort Pierce, Florida. They painted vivid scenes of the Florida landscape and sold their artwork along highways and roadside stands from Fort Pierce to Miami. The popularity of their work grew over time, and today their paintings are highly sought after and can be found in numerous galleries and museums around the world.
The value of Florida Highwaymen art depends on a variety of factors, including the artist’s reputation, condition of the piece, and rarity. Works by the original Highwaymen are highly collectible and can be quite valuable. Pieces by lesser-known artists are also desirable, but may not command the same prices. Ultimately, the value of the artwork is determined by the collector, so it’s important to do your research before investing in a piece.
Tour of Museums Featuring Florida Highwaymen Art Collections
If you’re looking to explore the world of Florida Highwaymen art, there are several museums that feature these works. The most notable museum is the Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee, which houses the largest collection of Highwaymen art in the world. Other notable museums include the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach and the Tampa Museum of Art in Tampa.
When visiting one of these museums, you’ll be able to view the artwork up close and learn more about the history and legacy of the Florida Highwaymen. Most museums also offer guided tours, lectures, and other educational programs related to the movement.
Conclusion
The world of Florida Highwaymen art is truly fascinating and worth exploring. From speaking with Alfred Hair, one of the original Highwaymen, to visiting local galleries and museums, there are many ways to experience this unique style of painting. Additionally, there are plenty of online stores where you can purchase these works, though it’s important to be aware of counterfeit pieces.
For those looking to add a piece of Florida Highwaymen art to their collection, it’s important to do your research and be mindful of the artist’s reputation, condition, and rarity. With the right knowledge, you can be sure to find a beautiful and valuable work of art that you can cherish for years to come.
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