OPA Says Goodbye to Master Signature Artist
Nancy S. Crookston
November 23, 1948 – November 17, 2023
It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we share the news of Master Signature artist Nancy Seamons Crookston’s untimely passing last Friday, November 17, due to post-operative complications resulting from shoulder surgery.
Nancy was a beautiful and talented soul who will always be remembered for her kindness, generous spirit, and exceptional artistic talent. Her warm and friendly demeanor, coupled with her wealth of knowledge about art allowed her to connect with so many people throughout her life.
An avid supporter of OPA, Nancy was often called on to jury artwork, whether it be for a regional or national exhibition or to serve on the Master Signature selection committee. She was always willing to share her expertise and was well-known for her giving nature and sage advice. An integral part of the OPA family, Nancy and her husband Garr regularly attended OPA events, and Nancy was often called on to join a panel discussion, provide a painting demonstration, or give a critique.
Early on in her career, Nancy studied with renowned Russian artist Sergei Bongart, whom she often mused was quite direct and opinionated when it came to critiquing his students’ work. Nevertheless, her hard work and perseverance paid off, receiving OPA Master Signature status in 2002; an honor bestowed on a select group of distinguished artists. Throughout her career, Nancy would go on to win numerous awards, winning the Gold Medal at this year’s Western Regional Exhibition for her painting, “I’ll Show You How It’s Done”.
2023 Western Regional
I’ll Show You How It’s Done
by Nancy S. Crookston OPAM
A proud wife and mother of five, Nancy often spoke lovingly about her children and grandchildren, who often modeled for her beautiful figurative paintings. Having moved from Utah to Alameda, California, in 2006, both Nancy and her husband Garr loved the vibrant art community found in the San Francisco Bay area. Her Facebook friends delighted in her regular posts depicting the people living in Alameda, and her whimsical morning breakfast sketches at the local diner became a fan favorite.
OPA will forever cherish the fond memories we have of Nancy and will continue to be inspired by her amazing life and legacy. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Crookston family.
2018 Salon Show
Shirley Temple No Ice
by Nancy S. Crookston OPAM
On a Clear Day You Can See Forever by Nancy S. Crookston OPAM
Spettro by Nancy S. Crookston OPAM
November 23, 1948 – November 17, 2023
Laura Collins says
Beyond the kind of person Nancy’s friends among the OPA masters describe her as, I was always an associate member who knew her from her work, and her posting of it from which I learned so much. She was truly the epitomy of what an artist should be, generous and encouraging to artists like myself while she unceasingly turned out her beautiful paintings
Joe Gyurcsak says
My deepest condolences to the Crookston family, prayers for peace and fond memories to you all.
Dorothy Mellin says
As I write this, I have tears in my eyes, and a deep sadness upon hearing of the sudden death of Nancy. My husband and I always looked forward to the OPA convention and seeing Nancy and Garr there again.She always had a welcoming smile and sunny disposition. The world has lost a great talent and beautiful person.
Susan Blackwood says
Our hearts are broken! Nancy was joy and light and love for all of us! Howard and I traveled to China with her and Gar… I will never forget the time with her, painting and touring!
Thank you for this tribute!
Susan Blackwood
Nancy Oppenheimer says
Beautiful brilliant kind woman and magnificent artist. A treasure to behold. Even from afar. Sending condolences to Nancy’s family, friends, and all those she touched with her art and heart (both one and the same).
Rick Reinert says
We have had the honour to represent Nancy and her extraordinary work these past years and had the opportunity to meet Nancy and Garr earlier this year. Such a lovely and giving person and incredible artist. Our deepest condolences to the family and friends.
Candy Galvan says
I’m so sad! I discovered this lovely lady first 6 or 7 years ago by seeing her whimsical restaurant chef sketches, then fell in love with her oil portraits, even visiting a gallery in Coronado to see some. I never met her in person and only knew her through social media, but her art revealed part of her. How fragile life is. We move from here to eternity in the blink of an eye. May you fly with God Nancy.