Downtown will shine with history, legacy, and artistic talent as Main Street Fort Pierce presents a special one-night-only exhibition, “Mother & Son,” featuring Doretha Hair Truesdell and her son, Roderick Hair.
The exhibit will take place on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the historic Platts Backus House, located at 122 AE Backus Ave, Fort Pierce, Florida 34950.
A Legacy Rooted in Florida’s Highwaymen Tradition
This powerful exhibition carries deep historical significance. Doretha Hair Truesdell was the wife of renowned Highwaymen artist Alfred Hair, one of the original members of the celebrated Florida Highwaymen movement. Their son, Roderick Hair, is continuing a family legacy closely tied to one of Florida’s most important art movements.
While Alfred Hair helped shape a generation of self-taught African American landscape painters who captured Florida’s natural beauty, “Mother & Son” highlights the continued artistic spirit within his family. The exhibition offers a meaningful look at how creativity, resilience, and expression carry forward across generations.
Art Available for Purchase
All artwork on display will be available for purchase, giving collectors and art enthusiasts a rare opportunity to acquire original pieces connected to a living legacy of Florida art history. Whether you are a seasoned collector of Highwaymen art or simply appreciate powerful storytelling through paint, this show provides a unique opportunity to support local artists.
An Inspiring Setting for a Historic Evening
Holding the event at the last home of Florida landscape master A.E. Backus adds even deeper resonance. Backus was a mentor to several Highwaymen artists, making the venue especially fitting for an exhibition connected to that influential movement.
Because “Mother & Son” is a one-night-only event, guests are encouraged to mark their calendars. On March 12, the Fort Pierce community will gather not only to celebrate art — but to honor family, history, and the enduring creative spirit that continues to shape Florida’s cultural landscape.