Willie C. Reagan, "Wekiva Springs,
oil on canvas, 18" x 24"

TALLAHASSEE, FL – Secretary of State Glenda E. Hood announces an exhibition of paintings by Highwaymen Artist L.L. C. Organized by the Office of Cultural and Historical Programs, this exhibition entitled “Wekiva River State Park” will be on display from November 23, 2004 through February 28, 2005 and is part of a statewide celebration of African-American culture and prosperity in Florida initiated by Governor Jeb Bush to celebrate Black History Month.

“The Department of State is delighted to partner with the Governor’s office to promote the special celebration of Black History Month to all Floridians,” said Secretary Hood. “The Wekiva River Series, under the auspices of Robert Butler, captures the beauty of a unique ecosystem located just north of the bustling metropolitan area of Orlando.”

The Highwaymen artists approached the Wekiva River Series project with several objectives: first, documenting on canvas the remaining natural beauty of the sunshine state; second, educating a growing population on the importance of preserving the area’s beauty and most importantly, leaving a lasting legacy of the natural flora and fauna captured by the Highwaymen artists themselves, so fellow artists will be encouraged to follow in their footsteps.

Highwaymen Artist L.L. C. was formed on February 3, 2003, to preserve the legacy of The Highwaymen. This group of African-American artists supported their families by selling their artwork along the highways of Florida, largely from the trunk of their cars.
The dream of this group of artists is to preserve the history of their lives and to give back to the communities from which they came. Through examples of their hard work, they strive to teach the youth not only to become consumers, but also entrepreneurs and productive citizens within their communities. Twenty-six Highwaymen were inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame earlier this year.

For more information and images please visit www.highwaymenartist.com.

For further information about the Capitol Complex Exhibition Program, contact Sandy Shaughnessy at 850/245-6480 or visit: www.florida-arts.org.

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