Lulu Scott Backus ceramics

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: RITArt-0008

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

Lulu Scott Backus ceramics contain 10 pieces: 4 pitchers, 1 bowl, 1 platter, 1 cup, 2 vases, and 1 teapot. Each piece has a different colored glaze.

Dates

Creation: circa 1920-1935

Creator

Backus, Lulu Scott (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open to researchers.

Biographical / Historical

Lulu Scott Backus (1873-1955) taught ceramics at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) for 34 years, and for a period, served as head of the department when the University was known as the Rochester Athenaeum and Mechanics Institute. Backus exhibited her work widely, and was known for her colorful and experimental glazing techniques.

Backus attended the State Normal School at Brockport. After graduating, she worked at Brockport School 13 where she was the principal, and also taught drawing and music. She also taught drawing at the Rochester School for the Deaf.

Her affiliation with RIT began when she attended the art and craft teacher training program, and completed her postgraduate work with Theodore Hanford Pond, working in jewelry and pottery. Later, she specialized in ceramics and worked under Charles Fergus Binns at Alfred University. She returned to the Rochester Athenaeum and Mechanics Institute and served as director of the Craft and Ceramic Department starting in 1918. She remained at RIT until her retirement in 1952.

Lulu Scott Backus died in 1955 at the age of 82.

Extent

10 Item(s)

Language

English

Additional Description

Overview

The collection contains 10 pieces of ceramics made by artist Lulu Scott Backus.

Arrangement

Ceramic pieces are stored by size within the RIT Art on Campus collection.

Physical Location

C.S. North, Shelves 74, 75, 77, 80 (with Art on Campus collections)

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Ceramic pitcher and vase were donated by Susan Hohn Sandman on behalf of Lewis E. Hohn.

Accession number(s): 2009:36

Four pieces were donated to the RIT Archive Collection by Mrs. Stephen (Irene Adams) Sillay in 1986.

Accession number(s): 1986:001