In the late 1950s, a group of self-taught African American artists dedicated themselves to capturing Florida’s natural landscapes. Shut out of museums and galleries by the Jim Crow era and the fight for civil rights, these self-made men and women found their way to success in the citrus groves and on the beach with windblown palm trees, reflective coastal waters, grassy marshes and tropical sunsets. Dubbed “the Highwaymen,” they became known for their realism, bold colors and entrepreneurial spirit.
Many of the Daytona painters are still living, and their work continues to be celebrated through an exhibition and book on the group, as well as at weekend meet-and-greets in communities throughout Florida. Doretha Hair-Truesdale, widow of the late Highwayman artist Alfred Hair, is among the most active artists. She paints, preserves her husband’s legacy and shares the origins of the group. She and her family have been preserving the art of the Highwaymen for nearly 20 years. They have invested millions in having their works cleaned, restored and framed by experts around the country.
The Highwaymen’s paintings are an important part of the collection at ONE DAYTONA. The art festival has been a gathering point for painters, photographers and other creatives since its inception. Each year the event offers a new, vibrant experience. The festival features a variety of live painting performances and artist panels onstage and at Gallery500. It also has jazz music in Victory Circle.
Another way to experience the arts at ONE DAYTONA is to follow the Daytona Beach Mural Trail. This self-guided tour allows visitors to walk through the area and admire a wide range of colorful murals. From a giant, waving-in-the-wind American flag on the exterior wall of Neptune’s Sports Pub to a scene depicting an oceanfront Harley-Davidson motorcycle with a bald eagle flying overhead at Henry’s Pizza, there is something for every art lover.
ONE DAYTONA’S ARTS AND CULTURE SECTOR also includes numerous art galleries and other venues for art lovers to experience. The city has an extensive selection of public and private galleries, including the prestigious ArtCenter of Central Florida. Its programs and events are designed to attract national attention, while promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage and diverse artistic talent.
For those looking to take a hands-on approach, a number of local art studios and schools offer painting classes for all ages. A fun way to spend a girls’ night out, bachelorette party, family reunion or company team building event, these painting and wine classes are an ideal way to relax while creating art. For a list of art studios in the Daytona Beach area, click here. For help with a home improvement project, such as painting your living room or kitchen, ask for quotes from top-rated professionals. Answer a few simple questions and within seconds, you will be connected with local service providers. The pros that match your needs will contact you to schedule an appointment. You can then hire the pro you like best.
Rhino Shield of Mid Florida
480 Fentress Blvd Suite K,
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Phone: (800) 660-3641