Lulu Scott Backus (1873-1955) taught ceramics at 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 not only principal, but taught drawing and music as well. 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 at the Institute, 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.
From the description of Lulu Scott Backus ceramics, circa 1920-1935. (RIT Library). WorldCat record id: 767837175
