Born in Mississippi in 1979, Nikia Crumby’s interest in the arts developed at an early age.  Though mainly self-taught, Crumby attended McNairy Central High School in Selmer, Tennessee, and was enrolled in the art program for four years under the direction of Selmer based artist George Sounders.  During this time Nikia developed a love of photography as well, which would eventually lead him to the American West inspiring much of his work to date.  While there, Nikia learned that art and ones senses were inseparable and his passion for painting grew deep.

In 2000, Nikia began showing his work to the public with a one-man exhibition at the UT Martin complex in Selmer, followed by several group exhibits.  In 2004, Nikia was accepted to the Florence Academy of Art in Florence, Italy but, unfortunately was unable to attend.  Four months later, Nikia abandoned his job of five years to pursue painting full time.  Nikia’s work is sought after by designers and private collectors alike.