Ray Austin Crooke: A Painter of Tranquility and Tropical Echoes Ray Austin Crooke (12 July 1922 – 5 December 2015) was an Australian landscape artist renowned for his serene depictions of islander communities and expansive ocean vistas, often imbued with the spirit of Paul Gauguin’s artistic vision. His legacy rests not merely in capturing visual beauty but also in reflecting a formative experience—serving in the armed forces during World War II—which profoundly shaped both his sensibility and his artistic approach. Crooke's journey from humble beginnings to celebrated Archibald Prize winner…