Vivian Ridge is best known as the wife of Bob Ross, the famous artist who hosted the popular TV show The Joy of Painting. While she may not have been as famous as Bob, Vivian made her own important contributions to the art world and to Bob’s career. This article will explore Vivian Ridge’s life, her partnership with Bob, and her lasting impact.
Early Life and Background
Vivian Ridge was born on July 2, 1946, in Wake Forest, North Carolina. She had a love for art from a young age, starting to paint when she was only 12 years old. After high school, she went on to study art history at Wake Forest University, where she learned even more about art and the world of painting.
Vivian wasn’t just about studying art; she also practiced it. She loved painting landscapes, just like Bob Ross. Her interest in art was something she shared with Bob, and it helped shape the beautiful art they created together later in life.
Meeting Bob Ross and Their Partnership
Vivian first met Bob Ross in the early 1960s when they both worked at WQED-TV in Pittsburgh. Vivian was in charge of production, and Bob was an artist. They became friends because of their shared love for art. A few years later, they got married in 1967.
Though Bob Ross became famous for hosting The Joy of Painting, Vivian was always there to help him behind the scenes. She supported him in many ways, making sure everything went smoothly during the show. Sometimes, she even painted alongside Bob, adding her own artistic touch to the show.
Together, Bob and Vivian created something special. Their work together made The Joy of Painting one of the most beloved TV shows about art.
Vivian Ridge’s Artistic Contributions
Vivian Ridge was a talented artist, even though she didn’t get as much attention as Bob Ross did. She painted beautiful landscapes, just like Bob, often using bright colors to show peaceful scenes of nature. She didn’t appear on TV as much as Bob did, but she was an important part of his work.
Vivian’s art was calm and peaceful, much like Bob’s. She painted many beautiful scenes of nature, and her work helped make Bob’s TV show feel warm and inviting. She may not have been as famous, but her paintings were just as beautiful and inspiring.
The Birth of The Joy of Painting and Its Impact
The Joy of Painting first aired on TV in 1983, but it became really popular in the 1980s and 1990s. The show taught people how to paint, and Bob’s calm and happy style made it easy for anyone to follow along. Vivian played a big role in the success of the show. She worked behind the scenes, helping to make sure everything ran smoothly.
The show became very popular, and Bob Ross became a beloved TV personality. The Joy of Painting continues to air today, and people still watch it to learn how to paint and to enjoy Bob’s positive attitude. Even though Bob was the star, Vivian’s work behind the scenes helped make the show so successful.
Vivian Ridge’s Legacy and Later Years
After Bob Ross passed away in 1995, Vivian kept painting and worked on her own projects. In 2013, she wrote a memoir called Lessons From a Painter: My Life with Bob Ross. The book told the story of her life with Bob, and it was later made into a TV movie.
Vivian also became involved in the early days of the internet. She was one of the first people to create a personal website and helped teach others about the internet. She even worked with President Bill Clinton on internet-related projects. Her work in the digital world showed that she was more than just an artist—she was also a trailblazer in the online world.
Vivian Ridge’s Personal Life: Marriage and Family
Vivian and Bob Ross had a strong and loving marriage. They were married in 1967 and had three children together: Jennifer, Christopher, and Sarah. Vivian loved being a mother, and she made sure her children were surrounded by creativity and art.
While she didn’t always like to be in the spotlight, Vivian played an important role in Bob’s life, both as a wife and a creative partner. Their children grew up in an environment where art was celebrated, and creativity was encouraged.
The Internet Age and Vivian Ridge’s Influence
In the early days of the internet, Vivian Ridge became involved in creating websites. She was one of the first people to build a personal website and was passionate about teaching others how to use the internet. Vivian also worked with President Clinton, helping him understand how the internet could help businesses.
Her work in the digital world was just as important as her art. She helped shape the way people used the internet, and her influence can still be felt today.
Vivian Ridge’s Passing and Lasting Impact
Vivian Ridge passed away on May 3, 2018, at the age of 79 after battling cancer. Her death marked the end of an important chapter in the story of Bob Ross. However, her legacy continues.
Vivian’s contributions to the world of art, her work with Bob Ross, and her efforts in the internet world all left a lasting impact. She will always be remembered as more than just Bob Ross’ wife; she was a talented artist and a key part of his success.
Conclusion
Vivian Ridge’s life was full of creativity, love, and hard work. While she may not have been as famous as Bob Ross, her contributions were just as important. From her beautiful artwork to her role behind the scenes on The Joy of Painting, Vivian left a lasting mark on the world. She helped shape Bob’s success and also made an impact in the world of technology.
Today, people remember Vivian not just for being Bob Ross’ wife, but for being a talented artist, a creative partner, and a trailblazer in the digital world. Her story is one of passion, dedication, and love for the arts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Vivian Ridge?
Vivian Ridge was an artist and the wife of Bob Ross. She played an important role in helping Bob create the TV show The Joy of Painting. She also painted her own beautiful landscapes.
What did Vivian Ridge do on The Joy of Painting?
Vivian worked behind the scenes on the show, making sure everything ran smoothly. She also painted on the show from time to time, adding her own artistic touch.
What happened after Bob Ross passed away?
After Bob Ross’ death, Vivian continued painting and even wrote a memoir about their life together. She also became involved in the early days of the internet and helped teach people about digital technology.
How did Vivian Ridge influence the internet?
Vivian was one of the first people to create a personal website and was involved in the early days of the internet. She even worked with President Clinton on projects related to digital commerce.