Albert E. Backus (Florida, 1906-1991) oil on canvas seascape depicting waves crashing against a rocky coast and a sailing vessel in the distance. Titled en verso "Rocks on New Providence Bahama Islands”, and signed lower right and en verso, "A E Backus". Silver-gilt molded frame with linen liner. Canvas 25" x 30" sight, 30"x 35" framed. Note: This painting was given a 2010 Insurance appraisal value of $20,000 by the A.E. Backus museum and gallery, Fort Pierce, FL, and a copy of this appraisal will be provided. Biography (courtesy Askart). The Artists' Bluebook: Albert Earnest "Beanie" Backus is regarded as the Dean of Florida Painters and the most influential of the Highwaymen, a group of African American landscape painters who sold paintings out of their vehicles in the 1950s. Born in Fort Pierce, Florida in 1906, Backus showed talent at an early age. Although essentially self taught (he took summer classes at the Parsons School in New York), he gave lessons to numerous artists. He received his first national recognition in 1939 in an exhibition sponsored by IBM and the Golden Gate Exposition Committee, called "Art Across the Nation". He joined the Navy in 1942, and after being wounded, continued to sketch and paint as much as possible. From the 1930s through 1950s, much of his work was impressionistic; in the last 30 years of his life, his landscapes became more representational. In 1957 he set up a studio in Jamaica and remained there for several years before returning to Florida. His studio in Fort Pierce is preserved as the Backus Gallery and Museum. Note: Proceeds from this item to benefit The Eleven, A Community of Faith, Love & Grace, Knoxville, TN. CONDITION: A couple of tiny scattered flakes to upper canvas in sky/upper rocks area, scattered abrasions to frame, overall excellent condition.