NASCAR Artist Sam Bass dies

Sam Bass

Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images

Sam Bass, whose images earned acclaim as the first officially licensed artist of NASCAR, died Saturday. He was 57.

Denise Bass, his wife, confirmed the artist’s passing. Bass had been battling kidney failure and was in search of a transplant.

“It is with a sad heart that our family shares the news of our loss with the NASCAR community," Denise Bass wrote. “Sam Bass, a loving husband, father, and inspiration to us all, passed away earlier today. Thank you for your prayers during this very difficult time."

The sanctioning body of NASCAR said of Bass in a statement: “Though he may have never turned a lap or a wrench, few captured the essence of our sport through his work more than Sam Bass. He was a consistent presence in the NASCAR garage, and his ever-present smile and endearing personality welcomed all. Though we have lost a member of the NASCAR family, his legend will continue in his art – all of which illustrated the greatness of our sport and the talent of a true friend."

Bass’ work was seen by many at high speed on NASCAR’s circuits, as his designs adorned cars driven by several of the sport’s most prominent drivers. Among those paint schemes was the iconic “Rainbow Warrior" colors that rode with Jeff Gordon’s No. 24 Chevrolet early in his career. Other paint schemes for Gordon’s rides followed.

“One of the things I have enjoyed the most about my career over the years is the people interaction," Bass said as he provided a medical update in 2017.

Bass’ work was also prominent on race-day programs, adorning the cover of Charlotte Motor Speedway’s publications since 1985.

In a statement, Speedway Motorsports, Inc. President and CEO Marcus Smith said: “Our deepest sympathies are with Denise and her family today. Sam Bass has been a significant part of NASCAR’s history. He poured his heart, soul and talent into producing souvenir program covers at many speedways including Charlotte for more than 30 years. His work provided our fans a keepsake to treasure, and that was so appropriate, because Sam was always such a fan of our sport and he was such a treasure to the entire NASCAR family. His body of work will be a legacy that lives forever. We will miss Sam’s smile and positivity."