The Artistry and Legacy of A.E. Backus

Join us for an engaging and insightful lecture exploring the life, artistry, and enduring legacy of one of Florida’s most celebrated painters, A.E. “Bean” Backus.

The evening begins with Backus’s early years growing up in Fort Pierce, his artistic training, and his emergence as an important Florida artist. We will trace his creative journey through the challenging Depression years and his time in military service.

Following World War II, Backus expanded beyond the Treasure Coast and discovered Coral Gables, where he cultivated an extensive and influential clientele. Among those deeply inspired by his work was the Morris family, whose patronage helped promote and preserve his artistic legacy.

We will also reflect on the personal chapters of his life — including the tragic end of his only marriage — and how, after his wife’s passing, Backus became a mentor to a group of young African American artists who would later become known as Florida Highwaymen.

Beyond his artistic accomplishments, Backus was a humanitarian and teacher. Widely regarded as Florida’s greatest landscape artist, his influence continues to shape the state’s artistic identity.

During the lecture, select works from the Morris Collection will be displayed, accompanied by short and meaningful anecdotes connected to each piece. The Morris Collection also played an important role in the 2001 publication: Southern Skies, Gentle Breezes: The Artistry of A.E. Backus

We hope you will join us for this special evening celebrating the life and legacy of a true Florida master.

Program

6:00 – 6:30 PM: Reception with wine and light refreshments

7:00 – 7:45 PM: Lecture Presentation

7:45 – 8:00 PM: Q&A

About the Speaker

Glenn Firestone is a native Miamian and a dedicated dealer and collector of Florida art, a passion he inherited from his parents. With a particular emphasis on the works of A.E. Backus—affectionately known as “Bean”—and the artists he mentored, including the renowned The Highwaymen, Glenn has spent decades preserving and promoting Florida’s rich artistic heritage.

A graduate of the University of Miami, Glenn, along with his wife Sherry, edited and published Southern Skies, Gentle Breezes: The Artistry of A.E. Backus in 2001. Featuring images from the Morris family collection, the book was met with great success and remains an important contribution to the scholarship surrounding Backus and his legacy.

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Host or Publisher Coral Gables Museum