Vivian Ridge: The Untold Story Behind Bob Ross’s First Wife and Her Impact on the Art World

Bob Ross is one of the most beloved figures in the world of art, known for his soothing voice, gentle demeanor, and signature “happy little trees” that filled the TV screen during episodes of The Joy of Painting. However, behind every iconic public figure is often a quiet support system. In the case of Bob Ross, that support came from his first wife, Vivian Ridge. While Bob Ross became a household name, Vivian remained mostly out of the limelight, yet she played a crucial role in both his personal and professional life. This article will delve into Vivian Ridge’s life, her relationship with Bob Ross, and the legacy she left in her own right.

Early Life of Vivian Ridge

Vivian Ridge was born in 1964 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA. Growing up in a supportive environment, she developed a deep passion for art at an early age. At the age of 12, Vivian began painting, and this would eventually become her lifelong pursuit. Her early interest in art paved the way for her academic journey. She pursued an Art History degree at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. This was where she would meet Bob Ross, a young and ambitious artist who would eventually change the course of her life.

Vivian’s passion for creativity and art was evident throughout her youth and education. Her studies at Wake Forest laid the foundation for her future as an artist and teacher. Little is known about her early family life, but it’s clear that her upbringing fostered her creativity and determination.

Meeting Bob Ross

While at Wake Forest University, Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross crossed paths. Both shared an affinity for art, and their shared interests brought them together. Although Bob was not the globally recognized artist he would become, he was an emerging talent in the art world. Vivian, studying art history, found herself drawn to Bob’s passion for painting, and the two began to form a strong bond. Their relationship quickly blossomed, and by 1965, they were married.

Their marriage was rooted in their mutual love for art and creativity. As Bob Ross’s career began to take shape, Vivian became a crucial part of his journey. Their marriage spanned 12 years, during which time they supported each other’s artistic endeavors and personal growth.

Vivian Ridge’s Role in Bob Ross’s Early Career

Though Bob Ross eventually became the iconic figure known for his TV shows, he did not rise to fame overnight. Vivian played a key role in the early stages of his career. While Bob gained public attention through The Joy of Painting, Vivian worked behind the scenes, helping with logistics, managing his schedule, and providing her artistic input.

Vivian’s background in art history was invaluable during the early stages of Bob’s career. She offered constructive feedback on his work, providing insights into his paintings that helped shape his technique. While Bob became the face of the “wet-on-wet” painting technique, Vivian’s contributions in the background were instrumental in his success.

Though she did not seek the spotlight, Vivian’s influence on Bob Ross’s rise to fame cannot be overstated. Her support and guidance allowed Bob to focus on his craft, leading to his eventual success as one of the most famous TV painters in history.

Marriage to Bob Ross: A Creative Partnership

Vivian and Bob Ross’s marriage was one of creative partnership. They were more than just husband and wife; they were artistic collaborators. Both of them shared a deep respect for each other’s work, and their relationship was built on this mutual admiration. During their 12-year marriage, they lived and worked together, combining their artistic talents to create a life focused on creativity.

However, like many marriages, theirs faced its share of challenges. While they supported each other’s careers, the pressures of Bob’s growing fame and personal struggles eventually strained their relationship. The couple’s divorce in 1977 marked the end of a significant chapter in both of their lives. Despite the end of their marriage, Vivian remained a quiet but influential presence in Bob’s life, and they continued to share a connection through their son, Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross.

Life After Divorce

Following their divorce, Vivian Ridge focused on her own artistic career. She continued to pursue painting and became an art teacher, sharing her knowledge and passion for art with others. Vivian did not seek the fame that Bob Ross achieved, but she was respected in the art community for her skills and her dedication to teaching.

Vivian’s post-divorce life was marked by her commitment to her craft. She continued to paint, with a focus on landscapes and portraits. Her paintings were known for their delicate brushwork and emotive quality, capturing the serenity of nature. In addition to her work as an artist, Vivian became an art teacher, helping students develop their artistic skills and find their own creative voices. Her students admired her patience and ability to inspire, and many credited her with shaping their artistic journeys.

Vivian and Bob’s Son, Steve Ross

Vivian and Bob Ross had one child together, a son named Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross. Born in 1966, Steve inherited his parents’ love for art and went on to become an artist in his own right. As a child, Steve appeared on The Joy of Painting and was mentored by his father in the famous “wet-on-wet” painting technique.

Steve Ross followed in his parents’ footsteps and worked alongside his father on the TV show. He became a successful artist in his own right and continued the family tradition of making art accessible to the public. Steve’s work is often compared to Bob’s, as he carries on the legacy of the “wet-on-wet” technique that his father made famous.

Even though Bob and Vivian’s marriage ended, their bond as parents remained strong. Both parents supported Steve in his artistic endeavors, and their shared love for art was passed down to him.

Vivian Ridge’s Legacy

Vivian Ridge’s legacy is often overshadowed by the fame of her ex-husband, Bob Ross, but her impact on both the art world and Bob’s career is undeniable. Vivian played a key role in the early stages of Bob’s rise to fame, providing the behind-the-scenes support that allowed him to focus on his art. Her artistic insights and her work as an art teacher shaped the lives of many aspiring artists.

Although Vivian Ridge may not have achieved the same level of fame as Bob Ross, her contributions to the art world should not be overlooked. Her influence, both as a partner in Bob’s early career and as an artist and teacher in her own right, continues to inspire those who know her story.

The Final Years of Vivian Ridge

Vivian Ridge passed away in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, but the exact cause of her death remains unclear. Some reports suggest that she may have battled cancer, though this has never been officially confirmed. Vivian’s death marked the end of a quiet chapter in the life of a woman who had supported one of the most iconic figures in the world of art.

Though Vivian Ridge is no longer with us, her legacy lives on through her contributions to the art community and the influence she had on her son, Steve Ross. Her life, though not widely known, was one of dedication to art, creativity, and teaching.

Conclusion

Vivian Ridge may not have sought the fame that Bob Ross achieved, but her life was a testament to the power of quiet support and artistic passion. As Bob’s first wife, she played a pivotal role in his early career and helped lay the foundation for his success. Even after their divorce, Vivian continued to pursue her own artistic path, leaving behind a legacy of her own.

Through her work as an artist and teacher, Vivian inspired countless individuals to explore their creativity and pursue their artistic dreams. While she may not have received the same public recognition as Bob Ross, her contributions to the art world were no less significant. Vivian Ridge’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and quiet strength, and it is one that deserves to be remembered and celebrated.