Does the Name A.E. Backus Ring a Bell?
If Not Here Is The Story
Marjory Stoneman Douglas was fighting her crusades while saving the Everglades. It was A.E. Backus who was painting them and capturing a lasting record of Florida’s natural resources. He painted nature along the rivers, shorelines and the backcountry. His own style was captured by his use of the palette knife work along with his brushes. Most of these paintings were done in the Plein Air style on location using larger canvases and oil paints. In developing his own style he recognized early the importance of light and how it brings a sense of realism as if you are standing again back in that moment. From that he was able to put emotion into his skies, translucency in his waves and cast shadows that glide along the earth. Palm trees swaying in the wind, Pine trees standing erect in the light and the famous Poinciana trees expanding the flame of bright orange flowers. Backus was able to interpret the nature of moods, a storm blowing along the waters edge, or the summer breezes caressing the glades. He embraces the true sense of “Old Florida”.
Backus shrugged off accolades even with his many awards and recognition.
The rolling waves and wind blowing through the trees can been seen.
The Man
Backus was humble, generous, with a compassionate nature, and racial tolerance. He bought a “New Studio” house in which he left the front door opened all the time. Extra beds were placed on the third floor for unexpected company. Hosting many gatherings which would include his favorite Jazz music and a nice pour of rum. It became the social center of Fort Pierce. At one point, he started teaching painting to young children. This was also the home of the Highwaymen Art. Due to racial inequality, Backus taught black gentlemen the art of painting. They would paint these natural Florida scenes. Selling these paintings from the trunk of their cars. One can still find exhibits of the Highwaymen’s paintings around Florida’s Museums of the many collections put together for viewing.
A.E. Backus, Marjory Stoneman Douglas, William Thomas Collier, Henry Flagler, Ernest Hemingway, Marion Stevens (see blog)and many more, all lived during the innocent days of discovering the beauty in this state. They all captured the essence of life and secured the memories at that time. If you have time and would like to explore more information check out the publication, “Tropical Light” by Natasha Kuzmanovic and the Backus Gallery & Museum, 500 N Indian River Dr. Fort Pierce Fl 34950
The Museum
I wouldn’t mind the growth here if it was in keeping with the town’s character. The developers are turning Fort Pierce into a poor man’s Fort Lauderdale. This state is growing too fast, in the wrong direction”.
A.E, Backus
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