Sylvester Wells Sold at Auction Prices

b. 1938 -

Sylvester Wells is first and foremost a man of God. He says he was called to serve the Lord in 1960 and has been a preacher ever since. His artistic work, therefore, can only understood as part of his service to God. As he says, “You can’t put God on the sidelines. You must do everything to the glory of God.”

He was born in Jacksonville, Florida, the middle child of ten. His father was a truck driver at the shipyard and his mother took care of the home and family. While he wasn’t raised in the church, his parents knew what was right and wrong, and worked hard to keep their children out of trouble. High moral standards directed them to all be good citizens.

As a child, Sylvester liked to draw. Although no one in his family was artistic, he spent his time drawing beginning at the age of six. God gave him the gift, he explains, and it was his job to cultivate it. On his own, he developed skills in portraiture and sign painting.

After finishing high school in Jacksonville, he joined the US Army and was stationed in France. Once his service was completed, he returned home to his wife, Consuelo in Cocoa, Florida.

Read Full Artist Biography

0 Lots

Sort By:

Categories

Auction Date

Seller

Seller Location

Price Range

to
  • Sylvester Wells 1938-2023 Highwaymen Oil Painting
    Mar. 26, 2025

    Sylvester Wells 1938-2023 Highwaymen Oil Painting

    Est: $100 - $1,000

    Sylvester M. Wells (American, 1938-2023), original oil painting on canvas-board, depicting a Florida marsh wetlands scene at sunset, with native vegetation and birds in a tranquil natural setting. Signed in the lower right, the painting reflects the influence of the Indian River School and its founder, Albert "Beanie" Backus (1906-1990), a key inspiration for Wells and his fellow Florida Highwaymen artists. Unframed. Description created with SnapGenie Dimensions: 18 X 24 X .25 in. Condition: Good overall condition, with some age-related toning and surface wear. The canvas board exhibits storage wear along the edges and corners. This condition statement is provided as a courtesy and reflects an opinion, not a statement of fact. Bidders are encouraged to inspect items in person or through an agent to assess condition. Estate fresh to the market. Shipping: Hill Auction Gallery offers in-house ground contiguous USA domestic shipping, excluding New Mexico, for $95 plus insurance. Gallery will refer third party shippers for international buyers. Purchaser pick up available upon request. Local Delivery: Florida door-to-door hand delivery service available for this lot; contact Toti@Zemaqua.com for an estimate.

    Hill Auction Gallery
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN LOVE ON THE ROCKS
    Feb. 22, 2025

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN LOVE ON THE ROCKS

    Est: $500 - $1,500

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Canvas Board - signed lower right. Executed in brushwork. A tidal wave crashes ashore, its mighty embrace softened by the flight of three graceful gulls. Their wings catch the evening sun, weaving a dance of romance in the vibrant spray of the ocean. Board measures 8x10 framed to overall size of 11x13.Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN JOURNEYS END
    Feb. 22, 2025

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN JOURNEYS END

    Est: $1,500 - $3,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower right. Executed in palette knife on a field of brushwork. The St. Lucie River in serene moonlit harmony. The tranquil waters reflect the moon’s glow, embodying nature's quiet elegance. Wells, who accomplished his artistry and was imperiled with blindness, mirrors Beethoven’s journey. Both artists triumphed over sensory loss, creating masterpieces that resonate with timeless beauty and emotional depth. Board measures 12x24 framed to overall size of 14x25 Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PAINTING
    Feb. 16, 2025

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PAINTING

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    WELLS, Sylvester, (American, b. 1939): Florida Highwaymen Backwater Sunset with Heron Fishing, Oil/Upson Board, 24” x 12”, signed lower left, signed, inscribed “Huntsville, Alabama” and dated 1970, framed, 27.75” x 15.75”.

    Burchard Galleries Inc
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PAINTING
    Feb. 16, 2025

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PAINTING

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    WELLS, Sylvester, (American, b. 1939): Florida Highwaymen Backwater Lagoon with Palm Trees, Oil/Upson, 24” x 12”, signed lower left, framed, 27.5” x 15.75”.

    Burchard Galleries Inc
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SKIFF AT REST
    Jan. 18, 2025

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SKIFF AT REST

    Est: $750 - $1,500

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on art board - signed lower right. Executed in brush. A tranquil blue moonlit night with a skiff at rest amidst the dripping Spanish moss laden oaks and swaying palms. Board measures 9x13 framed to overall size of 12x16. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SELF PORTRAIT
    Jan. 18, 2025

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SELF PORTRAIT

    Est: $3,000 - $6,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Acrylic on Plywood Board - signed lower right. Executed in brush. In this enchanting self-portrait, Highwaymen artist Reverend Sylvester Wells depicts himself and his wife walking hand in hand across a charming bridge leading to their church. The serene lake reflects the vibrant hues of the sky, painted in soft purples and pinks, evoking a sense of tranquility. Surrounding them, an oasis of palms and majestic oak trees frames the scene, while fields of wildflowers burst with color, enhancing the idyllic atmosphere. This heartfelt portrayal captures the essence of love, faith, and the beauty of nature, inviting a moment of shared devotion. Board measures 24x36 framed to overall size of 28x41.Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SUMMER BEND
    Dec. 14, 2024

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SUMMER BEND

    Est: $1,500 - $3,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower left. S.M. Wells' painting captures a serene nighttime river scene. The dark skies are illuminated by the moonlight, casting a gentle glow on the tide. Egrets enjoy a nightly swim, their graceful movements adding a touch of elegance. Spanish moss drapes off the riparian forest, creating a mystical atmosphere. Board measures 18x28 framed to overall size of 22x32. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M.WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PINK SKIES
    Oct. 19, 2024

    S.M.WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PINK SKIES

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Canvas Board- signed lower right. Executed in Palette Knife on a Field of Brush work. Sylvester Wells 'painting features whimsical pink skies, casting a magical glow over the scene. A majestic live oak, draped in Spanish moss, stands silhouetted against the vibrant backdrop. The interplay of colors and textures creates a dreamlike atmosphere, capturing the enchanting beauty of Florida’s landscapes. Board measures 20x24 framed to overall size of 23x27. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M.WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN BLUE SKIES
    Oct. 19, 2024

    S.M.WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN BLUE SKIES

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Canvas Board- signed lower right. Executed in brush and palette knife. A skiff is tied up on the beach, with waves rolling in and whitecaps breaking. The sun is veiled by haze and cumulus clouds, casting a muted light over the scene. Gulls soar in the distance, adding to the melancholic atmosphere. Board measures 16x20 framed to overall size of 23x27. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M.WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN AQUATIC WONDERLAND
    Oct. 19, 2024

    S.M.WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN AQUATIC WONDERLAND

    Est: $3,000 - $6,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson Board - signed lower Left. Executed in Palette Knife on a field of Brushwork. Sylvester Wells 'painting is a delightful dance of tranquil brackish river water mingling with the ocean’s salty embrace. Framed by an exuberant abundance of flora and fauna, this scene is nature’s cocktail party, where mangroves gossip and herons strut their stuff. In the top 5% of most exciting paintings by this artist! . Board measures 24x36 framed to overall size of 27x39 Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • Sylvester M. Wells (American, b. 1939)
    Oct. 02, 2024

    Sylvester M. Wells (American, b. 1939)

    Est: $300 - $500

    "Egret in Landscape." Oil on canvas board. Signed on bottom left. 11 x 14 1/2"; 18 x 14 1/2" (overall). Framed.

    Vallot Auctioneers
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN ORCHID RIVER ROAD
    Sep. 14, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN ORCHID RIVER ROAD

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Masonite - signed lower right. Executed in Palette Knife on a field of Brushwork. Imagine a ReverendSylvester Wells masterpiece where a purple river road winds along the St. Lucie River, with palm trees and foliage so thick you’d need a machete to get through! The orchid skies look like they were painted by aunicorn on a sugar rush. It’s a tropical dreamscape with a twist of whimsy! Board measures 24x36 framed to overall size of 28x40. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN OLD DIXIE HIGHWAY
    Sep. 14, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN OLD DIXIE HIGHWAY

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Acrylic on Canvas - signed lower right. Visionary acrylic on canvas of a truck working its way along the tree laden river road. Later in his career work. Bountiful with trees and a simple road. Wells was rendered blind early in his career and his paintings are quite sought after. Canvas measures 18x36 framed to overall size of 23x41. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN GULL IN FLIGHT
    Jun. 22, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN GULL IN FLIGHT

    Est: $300 - $600

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Art Board - signed on Verso. Brush and palette knife were used on this painting. The sun creates a haze over the lavender sky and waterway. Board measures 4x6 framed to overall size of 6x8. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PRIMITIVE LANDSCAPE
    Jun. 22, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PRIMITIVE LANDSCAPE

    Est: $500 - $1,500

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower right. Executed with brush. A primitive style painting of Florida's wilderness. Board measures 7.5x10 framed to overall size of 11x13. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SPOIL ISLAND
    Jun. 22, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SPOIL ISLAND

    Est: $1,000 - $3,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Art Board - signed lower left and verso. Painted with brush and palette knife. Multi-hued brown clouds linger over a spoil island. This coarse rendering by Wells was characteristic of his ministry work later in his career. Board measures 11x14 framed to overall size of 14x17. African American Highwaymen Folk-art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN ROYAL POINCIANA
    May. 25, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN ROYAL POINCIANA

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower right. Painted with brush. A primary blue sky and river are the backdrop for a full bloom Royal Poinciana tree. Board measures 16x20 framed to overall size of 21x25. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS Highwaymen Painting
    May. 18, 2024

    SYLVESTER WELLS Highwaymen Painting

    Est: $1,000 - $2,000

    Florida painting on canvas by the Highwaymen painter Sylvester Wells (American, 1938-2023), titled "Cotton Wagon," depicting an African American family in a horse-drawn wagon. Purchased in 2006 from Wells at an art show at the St. Pete Coliseum. Later in his career, Wells began producing paintings that showed scenes of everyday life in Florida, versus the typical Highwaymen sunsets and landscapes. Apparently unsigned, but unconditionally guaranteed to be Wells' work. Canvas measures 18" x 36", and frame measures 22-5/8" x 40-5/8". This item will need to be shipped by a packing company of your choice. We maintain a list of reliable shippers, or you may choose your own.

    Blackwell Auctions LLC
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN CHICADEES
    Mar. 23, 2024

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN CHICADEES

    Est: $4,000 - $8,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Canvas - signed lower left. Accomplished in subtle brushwork. An exhaustive search of 25 years of publicauction records confirms this is the Magnum Opus of Sylvester Wells wildlife paintings. Recently, in 2023, a cotton field scene offered by our gallery tripled all previous records and fetched a handsome price of$13,500.This is a potential game changer for Wells values at auction. Canvas measures a substantial 24x36 framed to overall size of 29x41. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River SchoolArt Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN RIVER PAINTING
    Mar. 17, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN RIVER PAINTING

    Est: $1,200 - $1,500

    WELLS, Sylvester M., (American, b. 1938): Highwaymen River Scene with Herons, Oil/Canvasboard, 12" x 16", signed lower right, framed, 17" x 21".

    Burchard Galleries Inc
  • Sylvester Wells (B.1938) Highwayman
    Feb. 11, 2024

    Sylvester Wells (B.1938) Highwayman

    Est: $1,000 - $2,000

    Sylvester Wells (American, B.1938) Oil on Upson Board. Signed lower right. Sight Size: 24 x 12 in. Overall Framed Size: 25.25 x 13.25 in.

    Helmuth Stone
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN MOONLIT JETTY
    Jan. 20, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN MOONLIT JETTY

    Est: $2,500 - $5,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower right. Executed in brush and palette knife. Waves crash against a rock outcropping and pool along the sandy beach as moonlight reflects off the water's surface. Board measures 24x36 framed to overall size of 27x39. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN RIVERS MEET
    Jan. 20, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN RIVERS MEET

    Est: $3,000 - $5,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on artist board - signed lower left. Executed in Palette knife on a brushed field. A refreshingly clean river inlet scene with colorful flowers in lower right negative space. Board measures 18x28 framed to overall size of 22x32. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN EVERGLADE TRINITY
    Jan. 20, 2024

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN EVERGLADE TRINITY

    Est: $3,000 - $5,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower right. Executed in Palette knife upon a field of brush work. Trinity of birds in the wilderness of the everglades. symbolic of Reverend Wells devout Christian faith and his struggle to create landscape in the style of his mentor Alfred Hair. Note the fast grass design and horizon line. Wells was accomplished portrait artist and is quoted as saying "the first time I tried to paint landscape, I cried". Called to the ministry at the age of 16, Wells painted to support his ministry until losing his sight. Board measures 24x31 framed to overall size of 28x35. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN ORANGE SUNSET
    Dec. 16, 2023

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN ORANGE SUNSET

    Est: $1,500 - $3,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower right. Rich in folk art character is this original frame orange bird Wells. These paintings afforded Wells a life of service to his Congregation. Board measures 16x24 framed to overall size of 19x28. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN TRUCKERS TRAIL
    Dec. 16, 2023

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN TRUCKERS TRAIL

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on canvas - signed lower right. Visionary acrylic on canvas of a truck working its way along the tree laden river road. Later in his career work. Bountiful with trees and a simple road. Wells was rendered blind early in his career and his paintings are quite sought after. Canvas measures 18x36 framed to overall size of23x41. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SELF PORTRAIT CHURCH
    Dec. 16, 2023

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SELF PORTRAIT CHURCH

    Est: $2,500 - $5,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on artist conservation board - signed lower right. Painted in brush. This quintessential Wells painting was a self portrait of him with his sister as he visualized it in seeing a church he once visited in Georgia. Wells recounted the story among others in a 2019 interview at his home in Alabama. Called to the ministry as a young boy, Wells referred to his art as a way to "put food on the table". Board measures 27x36. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PEACEFUL NIGHT SCENE
    Dec. 16, 2023

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PEACEFUL NIGHT SCENE

    Est: $3,000 - $5,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower left. This riverscape was created using brush and palette knife. The cloud covered sky darkens the lush foliage on the river's edge, while some moonlight reflects off the water's surface. Board measures 24x32 framed to overall size of 27x35. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SET SAIL
    Nov. 18, 2023

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SET SAIL

    Est: $2,500 - $4,500

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower right. Crafted in brush. Orange and red dance across the evening sky. in the hulk likeness of the legendary Black Sails and the legend of Aegeus and Theseus. Wells often created artistic images from pictures in books and magazines. Board measures 24x36 framed to overall size of27x39. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN CLOUDY DAY
    Oct. 28, 2023

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN CLOUDY DAY

    Est: $1,500 - $3,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on transitional Masonite - signed lower left. Formed using brush. Clouds shroud the riverside with brilliant orange tones lighting up the atmosphere. Board measures 12x24 framed to overall size of 14x26. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PUBLISHED DENSE PALM
    Oct. 28, 2023

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PUBLISHED DENSE PALM

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower left. Created using brush and palette knife. Published painting (Plate #7) from. Gary Monroe’s “The Highwaymen: Florida’s African-American Landscape Painters” (2001). Includes a 1st edition author signed book. Dense palms lean into the golden sunlight while enjoying an eastern gust. Board measures 12x16 framed to overall size of 13.5x17.5. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. The painting is from the collection of Geoff Cook, an early Highwaymen collector who strives to promote public awareness and appreciation of Highwaymen paintings. Partnering with the Orange County Regional History Center in 2003, Geoff developed a “loan collection” of all 26 Highwaymen artists that he made available to museum and art facilities in Florida and out of State. The exhibit “Against All Odds: The Art of The Highwaymen” was presented at 20 different art/museum facilities from 2003-2017 in Florida and as far as New York, enjoyed by over 50,000 attendees. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN BALANCING ACT
    Sep. 23, 2023

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN BALANCING ACT

    Est: $1,500 - $3,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on plywood board - signed lower right. Executed in brush. Portrait of a young woman balancing a washbowl on their head. Fantastic use of light and shadow make facial features pop. These scenes were a favorite of Reverand wells as he copied them from National Geographic magazine. Unlike his peers, he preferred to create from what he saw rather than imaginary landscape. Board measures 12x24 framed to overall size of 15x27. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN CHICKEN FEEDING
    Aug. 26, 2023

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN CHICKEN FEEDING

    Est: $6,000 - $12,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B. 1938) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on artist board - signed lower right and verso. Dated on verso 4/29/07, Titled "Chicken", and signed S.M.Wells The "90". Executed in brush. A beautiful depiction of Reverend Wells sister Elizabeth feeding the ducks and chickens with a loyal dog by her side. A small home and well can be seem in the distance. Board measures 24x30 framed to overall size of 30x35. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PETITE POINCIANA
    Jun. 24, 2023

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN PETITE POINCIANA

    Est: $300 - $600

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B. 1938) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Canvas Panel - signed lower right.. A Royal Poinciana in full bloom is set against a purple sky. Board measures 5x7 framed to overall size of 6x8. African American Highwaymen Folk Art, evolved from the Backus Indian River School Art Colony. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN POINCIANA
    May. 27, 2023

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN POINCIANA

    Est: $1,000 - $3,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B. 1938)Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Canvas Board - signed lower right. Beautiful rendering of a full bloom Poinciana with cloud formations overhead. Board measures 16x20 framed to overall size of 18.5x22.5. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN WETLAND SUMMER
    May. 27, 2023

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN WETLAND SUMMER

    Est: $1,500 - $2,500

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B. 1938) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on canvas - signed lower right. St. Lucie River scene at sunset with beautiful umber skies and an island of palm trees in the middle of the river. Board measures 20x24 framed to overall size of 26.5x30.5. From the private collection of Sylvester Wells in Huntsville, Alabama. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN IDYLLIC RIVER
    May. 27, 2023

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN IDYLLIC RIVER

    Est: $2,000 - $4,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B. 1938) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Orange Peel Upson board - signed lower left. A gently flowing river scene is bordered by the flora of native Floridian plants. Board measures 24x36 framed to overall size of 27x39. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SELF PORTRAIT
    May. 27, 2023

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN SELF PORTRAIT

    Est: $4,000 - $8,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B. 1938) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on canvas - signed lower right. Cotton fields self portrait with family picking cotton. Accomplished as a portrait artist, Sylvester met Alfred Hair and was impressed with his Cadillac. Hair encouraged him to paint landscape which he considered much more difficult. He referred to his non landscape work as Folk art which more richly embodied the spirit of a culture and time. Original noted in Sylvester wells hand "folk art $4000". Canvas measures 24x36 framed to overall size of 33x45. Provenance: sources originally from the private collection of Sylvester Wells in 2019. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN LILAC AFTERNOON
    Apr. 22, 2023

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN LILAC AFTERNOON

    Est: $1,500 - $3,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (1938-2023) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower right. Evening lilac shades slowly rise from the suns recent setting. Sylvester's early works uncommonly embodies the transition from folk art to highwaymen impressionist. Board measures 12x24 framed to overall size of 14x23.Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN FEW EGRETS
    Mar. 18, 2023

    S.M. SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN FEW EGRETS

    Est: $400 - $800

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B.1938) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Canvas board- signed lower left. Very early rendering of Florida sunrise from Reverend Wells developmental period early 1960's. Board measures 12x16 framed to overall size of 14x18.

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN VIVID SUN
    Mar. 18, 2023

    S.M. SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN VIVID SUN

    Est: $1,000 - $3,000

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B.1938) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on Upson - signed lower right. Early developmental highwaymen period. Sun sets slowly on the horizon reflecting a trail of colors on the rippling water. Board measures 12x24 framed to overall size of 15x27. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN CHURCH FAMILY
    Jan. 21, 2023

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN CHURCH FAMILY

    Est: $2,500 - $5,000

    Sylvester Wells (B.1938) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on poster board - signed lower right. Self portrait of Reverend Wells and his sister of an envisioned church scene. Symbolic crossing over the bridge to the church during sunrise. Sylvester Wells' was quoted as saying "A family that prays together stays together." when asked about this painting. Board measures 25x37 framed to overall size of 27x39. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • Sylvester M Wells (Born 1939) American
    Oct. 30, 2022

    Sylvester M Wells (Born 1939) American

    Est: $600 - $1,000

    Sylvester M Wells (Born 1939) oil on canvas board , Signed , measures 12" x 16" , w/frame 14" x 18"

    Cutler Bay Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN POINCIANAS IN BLOOM
    Oct. 08, 2022

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN POINCIANAS IN BLOOM

    Est: $1,500 - $3,500

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B.1938) ) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on art board - signed lower right. Two Poinciana and three palm trees highlight the lake. Birds along bank and in flight. On the back is titled, In the Garden Flamingo. Board measures 27x20 in ornate gold frame with overall size of 31x24. Condition: Painting is Very Fine. Frame has been repaired.

    Manor Auctions
  • S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN LION PRIDE
    Sep. 03, 2022

    S.M. WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN LION PRIDE

    Est: $1,000 - $1,500

    Wells, S. M. “Sylvester” (B.1938) Florida Highwaymen Painting. Oil on art board - signed lower right. A lion and lioness enjoy quiet time on the grassy plains. Board measures 22x28 framed to overall size of 26x32. Condition: Very Fine

    Manor Auctions
  • SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN BACKWATERS PAINTING
    Jun. 18, 2022

    SYLVESTER WELLS FLORIDA HIGHWAYMEN BACKWATERS PAINTING

    Est: $800 - $1,200

    WELLS, Sylvester, (American, b. 1939): Florida Highwaymen Backwaters Scene, Oil/Canvas on Upson Board, 24" x 16", signed lower right, framed, 27.75" x 19.75".

    Burchard Galleries Inc
  • SYLVESTER WELLS HIGHWAYMEN PAINTING
    Jun. 18, 2022

    SYLVESTER WELLS HIGHWAYMEN PAINTING

    Est: $1,000 - $2,000

    WELLS, Sylvester, (American, b. 1939): Florida Highwaymen Bend in the River Painting, Oil/Canvas on Upson Board, 24" x 16", signed lower right, framed, 27.75" x 20".

    Burchard Galleries Inc
Lots Per Page:

Popular Artists

Devices

Get Invaluable on Your Phone

Download the app via text link to get instantly notified if you’re outbid and receive auction reminders so you never miss out!

Bid On-the-Go!

Download the Invaluable app and never miss an auction from your iOS or Android device.

App Store badgeGoogle Play badge
Invaluable Logo

As the world's leading online auction marketplace, thousands of auction houses use Invaluable to deepen relationships with millions of clients around the world. Stay connected to the things you love with curated items and auctions sent to your inbox.

You can unsubscribe at any time. View ourPrivacy Policy.

© 1986-2025 Invaluable, LLC. and participating auction houses. All Rights Reserved.

TermsSubscription AgreementPrivacy PolicyCopyrightGDPR InfoPrivacy ChoiceYour Privacy ChoicesSite Map