Highway exhibit dazzles

Recently, I had the opportunity to do something I’ve never done before — look at Florida Highwaymen art up close and personal.

I was so amazed by the dazzling colors of the landscapes — the way the sunlight in those portraits illuminated the various scenes as if a piece of the actual sun was hidden somewhere underneath the vibrant paint.

Sure, I’ve seen pictures online and on postcards, but never in person. The paintings are records of the lush images of old Florida, depicted in a way that can only be truly appreciated in person. So it was a treat to see the artwork of Mary Ann Carroll, the sole Highwaywoman of the 26 black artists in that exclusive network.

She visited Art Center Sarasota for “An Evening with Mary Ann Carroll, Chuck Gomez and Larry Helmuth.” . . .

Read more about her visit in my Sunday column. Also, save the date for another Florida Highwayman visit by R.L. Lewis - 6 to 9 p.m. May 7 at the Manatee County Alliance Gallery, 926 12th St. W., Village of the Arts, Bradenton. The exhibit will be on view through May 29. Gallery house are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

For more information, call Carl Keeler, gallery director at 746-2223.