As we celebrate Independence Day and reflect on 250 years of American history, it feels fitting to honor the spirit of patriotism, perseverance, and creativity that has shaped our nation. Few individuals embody those qualities more fully than John A. Ruthven. His life’s story — from serving his country during World War II to becoming one of America’s most distinguished wildlife artists — stands as a uniquely American journey. Ruthven’s contributions reflect not only artistic mastery and scientific precision, but a deep love of country and a lifetime dedicated to exploring and celebrating the natural world that inspired him.
To honor this milestone year, the Ruthven Studio will present a special 250th Anniversary exhibit August 1st and August 2nd (more details to follow), showcasing a selection of meaningful artworks and awards that highlight both American contributions and the remarkable achievements of John A. Ruthven. This focused collection brings together pieces that reflect his service, his artistic excellence, and the national recognitions he received throughout his career — including several from the stories featured below.
John Ruthven’s Naval Service During World War II
When John A. Ruthven turned eighteen in 1942, he stepped directly into a nation at war. Rather than wait for the draft, he volunteered for the U.S. Navy and soon found himself serving aboard the destroyer escort J.R.Y. Blakely (DE‑140) during some of the most dangerous years of the Battle of the Atlantic.
As a sonar operator, Ruthven held one of the ship’s most critical roles — tracking enemy submarines in U‑boat‑infested waters, guiding the Blakely through rough seas, long convoy crossings, and high‑alert patrols that demanded constant vigilance. Life in the “tin can Navy” was cramped, wet, and unforgiving, yet Ruthven met every challenge with resilience and a steady sense of duty.
Despite the intensity of wartime service, Ruthven’s natural curiosity and talent followed him aboard ship. He sketched shipmates and scenes from daily life, drew quick cartoons that circulated among the escort fleet, fished off the stern when the seas were calm, and observed seabirds that stirred the passion he would later become known for.
His service carried him across the Atlantic and into the Pacific, from Casablanca to Cuba, South Africa, Brazil, and Pearl Harbor — even crossing the equator and being inducted into the ancient Order of Neptune, a milestone for any sailor. Ruthven’s 28 months at sea shaped him profoundly. The discipline, observational skill, and deep appreciation for wildlife that emerged during these years became foundational to his career as America’s “20th‑century Audubon.”
Visitors to the 250th Anniversary Exhibit will also be able to view several photographs and original naval sketches from this period, offering a rare glimpse into Ruthven’s life at sea and the experiences that helped forge the artist he would become.
The Ruthven Presidential American Bald Eagle Trilogy
The American Bald Eagle has long stood as the nation’s emblem of strength, freedom, and resilience — a symbol woven into the fabric of the United States since the founding era. Capturing this iconic bird with scientific accuracy and artistic power is no small task, and few artists have ever done so with the mastery of John A. Ruthven. His deep understanding of wildlife, paired with his lifelong patriotism, made him a natural choice when the White House sought artwork that reflected the nation’s identity.
Over a span of fifteen years, Ruthven received the extraordinary honor of creating official Bald Eagle paintings that were unveiled for three Presidents of the United States: American Bald Eagle I for President Gerald Ford during the nation’s Bicentennial in 1976, American Bald Eagle II for President Ronald Reagan in 1984, and American Bald Eagle III for President George H. W. Bush in 1991.
This trilogy represents a rare distinction in American art — Each painting reflects the trust placed in Ruthven to portray the nation’s most enduring symbol with authenticity, dignity, and reverence.
To commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, a limited artist‑proof run of all three Presidential Eagle prints will be available through Ruthven.com or for pickup at the Ruthven Studio during the exhibit.
The National Medal of Arts
The National Medal of Arts is the highest honor bestowed by the United States government upon artists whose work has made an enduring contribution to the cultural life of the nation. John A. Ruthven received this prestigious award at the White House in recognition of his extraordinary achievements in wildlife art, conservation, and American storytelling. His paintings — celebrated for their scientific accuracy, artistic mastery, and deep respect for the natural world — earned him a place among the country’s most distinguished artistic voices.
For Ruthven, the Medal of Arts represented not only national recognition, but a culmination of decades of dedication to his craft and to the American landscapes and species he so carefully documented. It stands as one of the defining honors of his career, reflecting both his influence and his legacy.
The actual National Medal of Arts will be on display during the 250th Anniversary Exhibit, offering visitors a rare opportunity to see this historic award in person.
Wings of Freedom
Wings of Freedom is another of John A. Ruthven’s patriotic works, featuring a Bald Eagle in flight set against the sweeping form of the American flag. Painted in 2015, the piece highlights two of the nation’s most recognizable symbols — the eagle rendered with Ruthven’s precise detailing, and the flag shown in full motion with its stars and stripes prominently displayed.
The painting was created for USO Cincinnati, an organization that supports America’s service members and their families through programs that strengthen morale and community. A companion graphite drawing of Wings of Freedom is currently displayed by our great friends at The National Exemplar Restaurant in Mariemont, Ohio.
During the 250th Anniversary Exhibit, visitors will also receive special complimentary gifts featuring the Wings of Freedom image — available exclusively at the Ruthven Studio throughout the celebration.
America 250th Anniversary Exhibit
Ruthven Studio and Gallery 130 Longworth St. Milford, OH 45150
Saturday, August 1 – 9am-2pm
Sunday, August 2 – 9am-1pm
More details to follow….
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