Albert Ernest Backus (1906-1990) was born in Fort Pierce, Florida. The beaches, rivers and backwoods hammocks were of remarkable beauty. This is much of what we see in Backus’ paintings: the unspoiled tropical landscapes and scenic countryside that would later be lost to development.

Throughout his career, Backus helped other young artists giving lessons advice and encouragement. Beanie was mentor to “The Highwaymen,” a group of Indian River area artists given that label from their practice of selling their paintings up and down Florida’s highways from their cars.