Often called the “20th Century Audubon,” Ruthven uses the same techniques as his famous predecessor. After studying and researching his subject thoroughly, he sketches to rigid specifications then renders the original painting with great detail.
Ruthven received the 2004 National Medal of Arts for his impeccably accurate and unfailingly beautiful wildlife art, and in recognition of his contributions as an artist and naturalist to conserving our natural treasures.
In 1994, Ruthven was honored by the Cincinnati Museum of Natural History with a major retrospective exhibit displaying 100 of his most important works, including “Eagle to the Moon,” commissioned by former Gov. James Rhodes to commemorate the achievements of astronaut Neil Armstrong.
Unveilings of original paintings have taken place at The White House; the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia; the President’s Palace in the Philippines, for Crown Prince Henri in Luxemborg, at the Neil Armstrong Space Museum, and the Ohio State Capital Rotunda.
Museums featuring his work include the Smithsonian Institution’s Preservation and Research Center; Leigh Yawkey Woodson Museum in Wausau, Wis.; the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History, Jamestown, N.Y.; and the Cincinnati Museum Center where a major retrospective exhibit of his work, “John A. Ruthven – In the Audubon Tradition,” was mounted.
Wombat Art Works is located at 258 S. Main St., Waynesville. For more information, call (513) 897-7174.