Mary Ann Carroll: Queen of the Highway
Honoring the legacy of the only female artist among the Florida Highwaymen, Queen of the Highwaymen showcases the vibrant landscapes of Mary Ann Carroll. Known for her striking depictions of Florida’s natural beauty, Carroll defied racial and gender barriers to establish herself as a pioneering artist. This exhibition offers a rare look at her six-decade career, highlighting her perseverance, talent, and impact on American art history.
Dates: April 4, 2024 – March 31, 2025
Location: Orlando City Hall’s Terrace Gallery, Orlando, Florida
The exhibition is free and open to the public during City Hall hours.
For more details or questions regarding registration, you may contact the Orlando Public Art Program at public.art@orlando.gov
Full event details can also be found at: orlando.gov
Exhibition Description
Mary Ann Carroll was the sole woman among the Florida Highwaymen, a group of 26 self-taught African American artists who painted and sold landscape scenes along Florida’s highways in the 1950s and beyond. As a single mother of seven, Carroll turned to painting as a means of economic survival, developing a distinctive style characterized by bold palettes, sweeping brushstrokes, and radiant Florida skies. Queen of the Highwaymen presents a collection of her most significant works, celebrating her artistic vision and the cultural movement she helped define. This exhibition not only highlights Carroll’s extraordinary talent but also underscores her resilience in an era of segregation and limited opportunities for Black artists.
Gallery
