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Lemuel "Lem" Newton (1950-2014)
Lem Newton, the youngest of the three Newton brothers, began his painting journey in the late 1960s after moving to Fort Pierce, Florida. Both he and his brother Sam were taught by their older brother Harold, who was already gaining recognition as a successful landscape painter. Lemuel, along with Willie Daniels, initially worked with Alfred Hair, preparing Upson boards for painting. Although less prolific than his elder brothers, Lem's art was heavily influenced by Harold, and the distinctive"Newton Brothers" style was evident in his work. Lem deeply admired Harold, once stating in an interview, "Sam and I wouldn't know anything about painting if it weren't for Harold. All the painters wouldn't know anything about painting if it weren't for Harold."
Lem Newton was known for his meticulous approach to painting, valuing the quality of his work above all. He created classic Highwaymen scenes featuring flame trees, swamps, palms, beaches, and sunsets, with keen attention to detail and a warm, inviting color palette. Despite his talent, Lem drifted away from painting during the 1970s and 80s when the market for Highwaymen art slowed.
However, he made a significant return to painting in the late 1990s, spurred by a renewed interest in the Highwaymen's work. His dedication to his craft and his ability to capture the essence of Florida's landscapes made his paintings highly sought after.
