The A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery is located in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce and includes a 5000 sq. ft. public visual arts facility. The museum was established in 1960 by A.E. Backus, the preeminent Florida landscape painter, and a group of local art enthusiasts. Open five days a week from early September through June (summer hours by appointment) the museum features the Nation's largest display of original paintings by Backus. The museum handles consignment sales of Backus paintings as well as other Treasure Coast artists of merit, which help fund the museum's operational costs, outreach programs and scholarship fund. Four additional exhibition wings feature changing exhibits of artwork by contemporary artists. Located a mere 2 blocks from Backus' longtime home and studio and adjacent to the location of his original studio, the museum is a worthwhile stop on any visitor's itinerary. The museum's ample free parking provides convenient access to other area attractions, casual waterside dining and boutique shopping.