A.E. Backus Oil Painting Of A Sailboat Sets Sail In July 30th Auction

Albert Ernest (A.E.) Backus oil painting of a sailboat on board attracted the Florida art collectors on July 30th. Albert "Beanie" Backus (American, 1906 - 1995) is perhaps the most well known Florida Landscape artist to ever live. Original Backus paintings continue to attract the collectors and command great value in the market. This particular Backus oil painting of a sailboat would have been one of his many Caribbean works, as Backus had enormous love for the Caribbean and spent a great deal of time at his second home in Jamaica. Collectors were delighted to have this painting brought to market, with an Internet bidder adding it to his collection for $9105 (inclusive of buyers premium).

Backus was primarily a self-taught painter who cut his teeth as an early commercial painter of signs, billboards and movie marquees. From there he progressed to landscape paintings, where over the years he refined his art from palette and knife to more brush work. His paintings were known for coming to life and captivating the viewer. 

Not only is Backus remembered as great landscape artist, but also as a teacher to all. Backus was always giving back, with his door open to any and all who wanted to learn. Backus welcomed people from all walks of life in to his studio, with these students earning the nickname of "Backus Brats". Throughout his life Backus had an everlasting influence on hundreds of children and young adults. 

The most notable of the Backus Brats would have to be the Florida Highwaymen. A movement which began when Al Hair, an unknown African-American artist, approached Backus about learning to paint Florida Landscapes. Hair would go on to bring 25 friends in to his circle, and together they formed the original 26 Florida Highwaymen. A group of African-American artists whose story is one of intrigue, perseverance and hard work, which resulted in careers spanning more than 50 years and an everlasting impression on the Florida art scene. 

About the Backus oil painting in the July 30th auction:

ALBERT E. BACKUS - OIL ON BOARD PAINTING SAILBOAT

Albert Ernest "Bean" Backus (American 1906 - 1991). Painting of a sailboat. One of his “Caribbean” paintings. Known as the "Dean of Florida painters" and the man who began the story of the African American Highwaymen painters, Backus was responsible for teaching and mentoring Al Hair who, in turn, taught the others.  Some of the original Florida Highwaymen are still painting today.  This painting depicts a small sail boat at sea, signed bottom right.

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