An inspiring collection of artworks by Mary Ann Carroll on display at the exhibit.
Orlando is preparing for a spectacular solo exhibit dedicated to Mary Ann Carroll, a groundbreaking artist and icon among the Florida Highwaymen. Titled “Mary Ann Carroll: Queen of the Highway,” the exhibit will take place at the Terrace Gallery in City Hall from April 4 to June 22, 2025. It celebrates Carroll’s remarkable journey as the only woman in a group of male artists, her unique artistic style, and her enduring legacy in the art community.
The vibrant city of Orlando is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host a spectacular solo exhibit dedicated to the one and only Mary Ann Carroll, a true icon in the world of art and a groundbreaking figure among the celebrated Florida Highwaymen. This remarkable exhibit, titled “Mary Ann Carroll: Queen of the Highway,” will take place at the Terrace Gallery in City Hall and marks a monumental moment in honoring a woman who made waves in the art community.
Born in 1940 in Georgia to sharecropper parents, Mary Ann’s journey was anything but ordinary. At a young age, her family relocated to Fort Pierce, Florida, where a passion for art and nature would blossom. Standing out among 26 male artists known as the Florida Highwaymen, Carroll was the only woman in the group, and she certainly left a remarkable mark.
The Florida Highwaymen emerged in the 1950s, capturing the stunning landscapes of Florida and selling their art along highways. While other artists found representation in galleries, these talented individuals sold their pieces roadside or to local businesses, breaking through barriers in a segregated society. Carroll, with her extraordinary resilience, traversed the state of Florida alone, showcasing her artwork and defying traditional expectations of race and gender.
Carroll’s artistic journey began when she met her mentor, Harold Newton, at just 18 years old. His striking car, adorned with flames, captured her attention and set her on the path to developing a unique artistic style characterized as “survivalist.” Her technique features dynamic brushwork and bold colors inspired largely by the picturesque Florida landscapes she adored. While raising her seven children, Carroll used her painting skills to provide for her family, showcasing her dedication as both a mother and an artist.
Over the decades, the Florida Highwaymen gained immense popularity, a testament to their perseverance and skill. They were inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame in 2004, a recognition that celebrated their lasting contributions to the art world and culture. Carroll herself was honored to be a distinguished guest at the First Lady’s Luncheon in Washington, D.C., in 2011, where she showcased her talent by presenting a painting to former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Mary Ann Carroll’s artwork transcended borders, with pieces displayed on three continents, and her wisdom and experience shared through lectures at institutions like Howard University. Sadly, she passed away in 2019 at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire artists everywhere.
The excitement doesn’t stop here! Orlando’s upcoming exhibit is co-curated by the talented team of Flynn Dobbs, Mark J. Lerner, Tony Hayton, and John Biederwolf, ensuring a comprehensive showcase of Carroll’s work. The public is invited to the opening reception on April 4, 2025, from 6 PM to 8 PM, promising to be a joyous gathering celebrating art, culture, and resilience. Attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Carroll’s inspiring journey, with the exhibit continuing until June 22, 2025.
As the city of Orlando takes a moment to reflect on the incredible contributions of Mary Ann Carroll, art enthusiasts, families, and friends are all encouraged to attend this celebration of talent, endurance, and history. Don’t miss your chance to experience the mesmerizing art of a true pioneer—it’s going to be something special!
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