The Economic Impact of Highwaymen Art in Fort Pierce

In this post, we explore how the highwaymen art movement continues to shape the city’s economy, with insights from local business owners and city officials.

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.

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.”

A local hotel owner, Susan Martinez notes a steady increase in bookings over the past few years, directly linked to Highwaymen-related events and exhibitions. “We see a noticeable uptick during events like the Highwaymen Heritage Trail celebrations. People travel here specifically for these events, and we see that reflected in our bookings.”

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.” According to Thompson, art sales related to Highwaymen paintings contribute roughly $1 million annually to the local economy, supporting galleries, frame shops, art supply stores, and other related businesses.

Events and Festivals: Boosting Local Businesses

Fort Pierce has embraced the Highwaymen legacy with annual festivals, gallery openings, and public art initiatives, all generating additional revenue for local businesses. The Highwaymen Heritage Trail, a self-guided tour of locations significant to the Highwaymen’s history, such as their original painting spots and homes, has become a major attraction. During festivals, local restaurants, bars, and retailers experience a significant boost in sales.

Timothy Rogers, owner of a downtown Fort Pierce restaurant, credits the Highwaymen for increased foot traffic. “Whenever there’s a Highwaymen event, we’re packed. People want to experience the city’s cultural roots and stay for the food, shopping, and nightlife. We see a 30% increase in business during these events.”

Community Revitalization and Cultural Pride

The economic impact of the Highwaymen movement goes beyond direct sales and tourism. The city has seen a cultural revitalization, with a renewed sense of pride in its artistic heritage. Local government officials have invested in beautifying parts of Fort Pierce to honor the Highwaymen, creating murals, improving public spaces, and developing infrastructure to support art-related tourism.

According to Mayor Linda Hudson, the city’s investment in promoting Highwaymen art has been a long-term economic development strategy. “We see the Highwaymen as not just artists but as entrepreneurs who helped put Fort Pierce on the map. The economic benefits are clear, but equally important is the sense of identity and pride it gives to our community. It’s a cultural and economic win for the city.”

Economic Statistics at a Glance

• $10 million annually from Highwaymen-related tourism
• $1 million annually in Highwaymen art sales through galleries and private sales
• 30% increase in business for restaurants and retailers during Highwaymen events
• Over 15,000 visitors annually participate in the Highwaymen Heritage Trail and related festivals
  
  

Conclusion

The Highwaymen art movement has transformed from a grassroots collective of artists selling paintings out of their car trunks to a powerful economic driver for Fort Pierce. By fostering tourism, art sales, and business growth, the Highwaymen legacy continues to generate income for the local community while preserving a crucial part of Florida’s cultural history. Through the collaboration of city officials, local businesses, and art lovers, the economic impact of the Highwaymen will continue to benefit Fort Pierce for generations to come. We encourage you to support the Highwaymen art movement and experience its economic benefits firsthand.