Signed and dated lower right: A.E. Backus 1985

Private collection, Cutler Bay, Florida.

Albert E. Backus (American, 1906-1991) Coastal Scene, 1985 Oil on canvas 20 x 24 inches (50.8 x 61.0 cm) Signed and dated lower right: A.E. Backus 1985 PROVENANCE: Private collection, Cutler Bay, Florida. Albert Ernest "Beanie" Backus is celebrated as one of the most significant interpreters of Florida's natural beauty, known for his vibrant and evocative depictions of the state's landscapes. His 1985 painting, Coastal Scene, captures the essence of Florida's coastal environment with a mastery of light, color, and atmosphere that reflects his deep connection to the land. Backus not only defined the visual identity of Florida art in the 20th century, but also played a pivotal role in shaping the Florida Highwaymen, a group of primarily African American self-taught artists he mentored, who became instrumental in the state's art scene. In Coastal Scene, Backus renders a windswept coastline, with palm trees bending gracefully under the force of an inland breeze. His use of soft yet bold colors captures the essence of a coastal day, with pastel blues of the sky and water blending seamlessly with the warm, sunlit clouds. The bright greens of the grassy foreground contrast gently with the serene palette, creating a harmonious balance. Palm trees, a recurring motif in Backus' work, stand tall and resilient, symbolizing the enduring strength of Florida's coastal ecosystem. The sunlight filtering through the scene hints at the late afternoon, casting long shadows and evoking a sense of calm and reflection. His treatment of light and shadow, combined with fluid brushwork, infuses the painting with poetic realism, drawing the viewer into the scene and making the landscape feel both specific and timeless. Backus was a self-taught artist who defied conventional boundaries, capturing Florida's unspoiled beauty long before mass development altered much of its landscape. His work not only celebrates nature but also serves as a reminder of the region's fragility. Backus' legacy is inseparable from his role as a mentor to the Highwaymen, a group of primarily African American artists who created and sold their works along Florida's highways during the 1950s and beyond. Backus shared his techniques and vision with these artists, providing guidance and inspiration that profoundly influenced their own distinctive style. The success and prominence of the Highwaymen are part of Backus' enduring impact on Florida's artistic heritage. Coastal Scene exemplifies Backus' later work, showcasing the maturity of his technique and his deep reverence for Florida's natural environment. His ability to blend realism with a sense of emotional depth gives the painting a unique resonance, offering more than just a visual representation of the landscape—it conveys a profound respect for the natural world. The painting stands as a tribute not only to Florida's beauty but also to Backus' legacy as an artist who captured its essence with sensitivity and skill. In Coastal Scene, Backus' legacy is beautifully preserved, illustrating his gift for portraying the landscape in a way that feels both intimate and grand. The painting reflects his mastery of light, his emotional connection to the natural world, and his influential role in mentoring the Florida Highwaymen, all of which secure his place as one of Florida's most beloved visual storytellers. HID12401132022 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

Unlined canvas. Under UV exam, there does not appear to be inpaint. No visible issues to note. Framed Dimensions 25 X 29 Inches