The Economic Impact of Highwaymen Art in Fort Pierce

The Highwaymen African American group of 26 self-taught artists, through their skillset portray various changes of nature in their artwork.

Born in the 1950s, the Highwaymen art movement holds a special place in Florida’s rich cultural history, particularly in Fort Pierce, where many of the original Highwaymen artists hailed from. These African American artists, often painting on inexpensive materials and selling their work roadside, have become symbols of resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurship. But beyond the historical and artistic significance, the Highwaymen art movement has had a profound economic impact on Fort Pierce, contributing to tourism and art sales and fostering growth in related industries such as hospitality, retail, and the arts. In this post, we explore how this art movement continues to shape the city’s economy, with insights from local business owners and city officials.

Tourism: A Growing Attraction
One of the most significant economic impacts of the Highwaymen art movement on Fort Pierce is the draw of cultural tourism. Visitors from across the country—and even internationally—flock to Fort Pierce to explore the Highwaymen’s legacy. The city has capitalized on this interest by promoting the Highwaymen as a key attraction in its tourism campaigns.

According to a recent report from the Fort Pierce Office of Economic Development, tourism related to the Highwaymen contributes approximately $10 million annually to the local economy. This includes spending on accommodations, dining, shopping, and visiting cultural sites like the A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery, which features many Highwaymen’s works. “Highwaymen art is a cornerstone of our cultural tourism initiatives,” says John Smith, Director of the Office of Economic Development. “Visitors come for the art, but they discover everything our city has to offer, from the local shops to the waterfront restaurants.”

Art Sales: A Thriving Market

The Highwaymen art market has grown significantly over the past few decades, with pieces once sold for just a few dollars now fetching thousands. Art collectors and enthusiasts regularly visit Fort Pierce to purchase original works from surviving Highwaymen artists or to find rare pieces from private collections. This demand has bolstered the local art market, supporting galleries, auction houses, and independent artists inspired by the Highwaymen legacy.

Local gallery owner Marie Thompson, who has specialized in Highwaymen art for over 15 years, shares how the movement has created a niche market. “When I first opened, we sold Highwaymen paintings for a few hundred dollars. Now, some pieces sell for as much as $10,000. The demand is incredible, bringing in collectors who might not have visited Fort Pierce otherwise.”