John A. Ruthven’s name resonates deeply within Cincinnati and far beyond its borders. Known as the “20th Century Audubon,” Ruthven's remarkable career bridged the worlds of fine art and environmental conservation, leaving an indelible mark on both. From his early years sketching along the Ohio River to his national acclaim as a wildlife artist, Ruthven’s journey is one of passion, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to preserving nature’s beauty.
In this blog, we’ll explore his life, the significance of his art, his most famous works, and how the Judy & John Ruthven Foundation continues to benefit the Cincinnati community through impactful initiatives.
Born in 1924 in Cincinnati, Ruthven’s love of nature blossomed early. As a child, he frequented the Walnut Hills Carnegie Library, where he was mesmerized by the works of John James Audubon and other wildlife artists. His early sketches were heavily inspired by these nature-driven masterpieces, and by the time he was a teenager, Ruthven had already developed an extraordinary eye for detail.
After serving in World War II, where he traveled the world and continued sketching wildlife, Ruthven returned to Cincinnati to study at the Cincinnati Art Academy. He then opened his own commercial art studio. It wasn’t long before his reputation as a skilled wildlife artist began to grow, with his breakthrough coming in 1960 when he won the Federal Duck Stamp competition with his depiction of “Redhead Ducks.” This victory launched his career and established him as a leading figure in wildlife art.
Ruthven’s art is known for its breathtaking precision and lifelike quality. Much like Audubon, he meticulously studied his subjects, ensuring that every feather, leaf, and animal was depicted with scientific accuracy and artistic flair. His works combine technical mastery with an innate sense of wonder for the natural world. As he once said, his desire was to “record for later generations some of the beauty of nature that exists in my lifetime”.
His ability to capture the essence of wildlife in such vivid detail made his work widely admired by both art collectors and environmentalists. Ruthven’s dedication to conservation was not just a theme in his paintings but a core aspect of his life’s work. This unique combination of artistic skill and commitment to nature preservation is what makes his art so renowned and enduring.
Ruthven produced a vast body of work during his career, but a few pieces stand out as iconic:
“Martha, the Last Passenger Pigeon”: One of Ruthven’s most celebrated works, this large mural in downtown Cincinnati honors the last known passenger pigeon, Martha, who died in 1914 at the Cincinnati Zoo. The mural serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of extinction and the importance of conservation.
“Redhead Ducks”: This painting, which won Ruthven the Federal Duck Stamp competition, remains one of his most well-known works. It not only catapulted his career but also helped raise awareness for wildlife conservation through the Duck Stamp program.
“Ivory-billed Woodpecker”: Commissioned by the Smithsonian Institution, this piece captures one of the rarest birds in the world, reflecting Ruthven’s focus on endangered species and his commitment to wildlife education.
As Ruthven’s career progressed, his passion for conservation became even more central to his work. He continued to paint and lecture well into his later years, earning numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Arts in 2004, an honor recognizing his contributions to both art and wildlife preservation.
Judy & John Ruthven Foundation
photo via The Business Journals
Ruthven’s commitment to preserving nature didn’t end with his paintings. The Judy & John Ruthven Foundation was established to carry on his mission of protecting wildlife and educating the public about the importance of conservation. The foundation works closely with local organizations such as the Cincinnati Nature Center and Great Parks of Hamilton County, supporting initiatives that preserve natural habitats, fund environmental education programs, and raise awareness of the dangers of extinction.
The foundation also plays a key role in maintaining Ruthven’s artistic legacy by supporting public art projects, like the “Martha” mural, that remind the community of the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world. These projects not only beautify Cincinnati’s public spaces but also serve as educational tools that inspire future generations to take action in preserving the environment.
The Judy & John Ruthven Foundation benefits Cincinnati in several impactful ways:
Educational Programs: The foundation sponsors programs that teach children and adults alike about the importance of wildlife conservation, often partnering with local schools and nature centers. These programs provide hands-on learning experiences that deepen participants’ connection to the natural world.
Conservation Projects: By funding habitat restoration projects and supporting local conservation efforts, the foundation helps ensure that Cincinnati’s natural environments remain vibrant and sustainable for future generations.
Public Art Initiatives: Ruthven’s public murals, like “Martha, the Last Passenger Pigeon,” serve as a daily reminder of the city’s commitment to conservation. These projects not only beautify the city but also engage the community in conversations about wildlife and the environment.
John Ruthven’s life was one of boundless curiosity, artistic excellence, and a deep love for the natural world. His legacy continues through his art, which remains celebrated across the globe, and through the Judy & John Ruthven Foundation, which ensures that his passion for nature and education lives on in Cincinnati. By supporting conservation efforts, educating the public, and beautifying the community through public art, Ruthven’s legacy is one that will inspire generations to come.