NC Rep. Hudson Statement Death of NASCAR Sam Bass

CONCORD, N.C.- Today U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (NC-08) released the following statement on the death of NASCAR artist Sam Bass: “Renee and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend and legendary artist,

Sam Bass,” said Rep. Hudson. “I got to know Sam through NASCAR and he even hosted the art competition I hold every year for high school students at his gallery. I admired him not just for his talent, but also for his incredible kindness. We send our sincere condolences to his wife Denise and the entire Bass family.”

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Sam Bass, NASCAR's first officially licensed artist, has died. He was 57.

He suffered from kidney problems. His wife, Denise, announced his death Saturday with a note on his official Twitter account.

Bass helped design paint schemes and programs for some of NASCAR's top stars and marquee events. His NASCAR Cup Series background included paint scheme designs for drivers Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Tony Stewart and others.

The Virginia-born Bass became interested in racing at Southside Speedway in Richmond. In 1984, he was commissioned to do the race program cover art for the 1985 Coca-Cola 600. He's done every cover for Charlotte Motor Speedway since.

NASCAR said in a statement that "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."

Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

*******