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Hezekiah Baker (1940-2007)

Hezekiah Baker (1940-2007) was a prominent figure in the Florida Highwaymen art movement, known for his vibrant landscapes that captured the essence of Florida's natural beauty. Born to sharecropping parents in Savannah, Georgia, Baker's journey into the art world began when he met fellow artists Harold Newton and Roy McLendon. His life took a pivotal turn when Alfred Hair encouraged him to shift from portrait painting to landscapes, a decision that would define his artistic career. Baker's works are characterized by their kaleidoscopic colors and dynamic brushwork, evoking a sense of an idyllic paradise filled with mystical tropical wonders.

In a 2001 New York Times interview, Baker reflected on the creative process of the Highwaymen, emphasizing their improvisational approach to art. The Highwaymen, often categorized as "Outside Artists" or "Folk Artists," challenged conventional definitions in the art world, producing an astonishing number of paintings over several decades. Despite facing challenges related to race and recognition, Baker and his contemporaries carved out a unique space in the art community, contributing to an emerging art movement that celebrated the beauty of Florida's landscapes. Their story, while initially overlooked, has garnered increasing attention and appreciation over the years.

Throughout his life, Baker balanced traditional jobs with his passion for painting. In the 1980s and 1990s, as interest in the Highwaymen waned, he opened a restaurant called "House of Foods" in Fort Pierce to support himself. However, with renewed interest in the Highwaymen spurred by art critic Jim Fitch, Baker was able to return to painting, reigniting his true love. His timeless river scenes and depictions of Florida's lush landscapes continue to resonate, inviting viewers into a world where nature reigns supreme, and the essence of the Florida wilderness is captured in vivid detail.