Spencer Crooks, born in 1917, was an award-winning artist and educator who played an important role in Rhode Island’s arts community. He was best known for his watercolor landscapes and prints depicting local landmarks. Born in Belfast, Ireland, Crooks later made his home in Rhode Island, where he drew inspiration from the state’s architecture, coastal views, and everyday scenes. These subjects remained central to his work throughout his career.

Crooks studied at the Rhode Island School of Design and went on to exhibit his work widely. This included the Royal Academy during World War II, Trinity College in Dublin, and institutions such as the Providence Art Club and Symphony Hall Galleries in Boston. His work is also part of the permanent collection at RISD. In addition to his studio practice, he was a dedicated teacher, serving on the faculty at Rhode Island College until 1983.

In 1973, Crooks founded the Newport-Wickford Watercolor Workshop, where he mentored generations of artists and helped elevate the Wickford Art Show into a major cultural event. He was inducted into the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame in 1987 and remained active in the arts community throughout his life. He sadly passed in 2004.

The gallery’s permanent collection includes several of Crooks’ works, highlighting his detailed and expressive approach to watercolor and his lasting commitment to capturing the character of Rhode Island’s landscapes and built environment.