The Lake County Historical Society & Museum will host a Florida Highwaymen Art Event on Saturday, March 15, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, featuring three original Highwaymen artists—Al Black, Curtis Arnett and R.L. Lewis, along with second generation Roy McClendon Jr. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to see these artists create their iconic Florida landscape paintings live, while also learning about the legacy of the Highwaymen and their impact on the art world.

On top of their live painting, there will be four original paintings for raffle and auction, with proceeds benefiting the Lake County Historical Museum.

The Florida Highwaymen, a group of 26 African American artists, gained recognition for their vibrant depictions of Florida’s natural beauty, including wind-bent palm trees, serene sunsets, marshlands, and bright Poinciana trees. Their work became a defining part of Florida’s artistic history from the 1950s through the 1980s, at a time when African American artists were largely excluded from traditional galleries. Instead, they took a bold and entrepreneurial approach, selling their paintings door-to-door and out of their car trunks along highways, which led to their now-iconic name.

What began as a small movement, largely influenced by painters Harold Newton and Alfred Hair, evolved into a nationally recognized art form. The artists originally painted on inexpensive Upson board, producing works at a rapid pace to meet demand. Over time, their unique style became highly collectible, and today, original Highwaymen paintings can sell for $5,000 to $10,000 or more. Several of the surviving Highwaymen painters continue their craft, preserving the tradition and artistry that made them famous.

This special event will allow guests to watch the Highwaymen artists in action, view and purchase original works, and enter a raffle for paintings created by the artists. The event will take place at the Lake County Historical Society & Museum, located at 317 W. Main St., Tavares, FL.

For more information about the event, contact 352-343-9890 or email lakecounty1887@yahoo.com.

Photos shared from Florida Highwaymen