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Willie Reagan (1939- )
Willie Reagan, born in 1939 in Lake Park, Florida, moved with his family to the small town of Gifford in
1944. Growing up in this historic African-American community, Reagan developed an early interest in art. As a young paperboy, he often passed by the home of Harold Newton, one of the original Florida Highwaymen, and was captivated by Newton's vibrant paintings. This early exposure to Newton's work inspired Reagan to pursue his own artistic path. After graduating from high school, he attended Florida A&M University on a football scholarship, earning a degree in art education in 1963.
Reagan's career as an artist began in earnest after he returned to Gifford following stints as a teacher in Georgia and service in the U.S. Army. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Reagan was more independent, often selling his paintings directly to homeowners in newly developed areas. Known for his meticulous approach, Reagan's work featured classic Highwaymen scenes such as flame trees, swamps, and sunsets, but he also ventured into more diverse subjects, including scenes from his travels to places like Alaska, Jamaica, and Paris. His ability to extend his paintings onto their frames, creating panoramic views, set his work apart.
In 1995, after retiring from a long career teaching art in Vero Beach, Reagan returned to painting full-time. His renewed dedication to his craft led to widespread recognition, and he was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame in 2004. Reagan's work continues to be celebrated for its technical skill and emotional depth, reflecting his lifelong passion for capturing the natural beauty of Florida and beyond. Today, he remains a respected figure in the art community, admired for both his artistic achievements and his contributions to the legacy of the Florida Highwaymen.

Click here for a video interview with Willie Reagan on Highwaymen Social