John A. Ruthven - Biography

Even as a boy, Ruthven's dream was to become influential in preserving wildlife through art. "I continually took my sketch pad with me wherever I went," Ruthven recalled. He went on to paint a brilliant career that has earned recognition from the highest.

After serving in World War II, he entered the Cincinnati Art Academy. He opened a commercial art studio in 1946 with the goal of building a career in wildlife art. In 1960 he entered the Federal Duck Stamp competition and won with his Redhead Ducks.

In 1971 Ruthven founded Wildlife Internationale`, Inc. to publish and distribute his limited edition prints. Ruthven was recognized as Duck`s Unlimited First Artist of the Year, First Ohio Duck Stamp Artists, and First Ohio Animal Stamp/Print Artist.