Fellow artist James Gleeson has written of Crooke's work:

"He belongs to that rare band of artists who have subtly changed our way of looking at the world. He has revealed the tropical north [of Australia ] as it has never been revealed before. We are in his debt to the extent that we now tend to see that part of the country through his eyes and with his vision."

The artist reveals in his travel diaries and sketchbooks of this period the basis for his paintings - the strong light effects at different times of the day, the colour of lush foliage after rain, and contrasting golden skin tones. Those who know Ray Crooke only for his island paintings however, may be surprised by his versatility. He has painted religious subjects and still lifes, and recorded rural landscapes, bush towns, and the Sydney Harbour in his vibrant and memorable style.

Awarded the Archibald Prize in 1978 for his portrait of literary antipodean, George Johnston. He was included in the Tate Gallery Exhibition of Australian Art (1963), and was an Official War Artist in Vietnam (1966). His work is represented in major collections including the National Gallery of Australia , all State and many regional galleries, the Vatican Collection of Rome as well as numerous private collections overseas. His work depicting the landscape and people of Fiji is particularly coveted.