Vivian Ridge: Who Was She? The Hidden Chapter of Bob Ross’s Early Years

Vivian Ridge discovered her interest for painting when she was just 12 years old. Her name will eventually be associated with one of America’s most beloved art teachers. She was born in North Carolina in the mid-1940s and had artistic skill from an early age. Her enthusiasm prompted her to seek an art history degree at Wake Forest University.

Her life took an intriguing turn when she met Bob Ross while attending university. Bob would subsequently become famous for his “happy little trees” and relaxing painting techniques. Their relationship developed swiftly, and Vivian married Bob Ross in 1965. In 1966, the couple welcomed their son, Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross[-4]. Their marriage lasted 12 years, and they divorced in 1977[-4]. Vivian remained out of the public eye for many years before passing away in May 2018 at the age of 71. She left an undiscovered story that influenced the early years of a painting icon.

Early Life and Education

Childhood in North Carolina.

Vivian Ridge was born in North Carolina in the mid-’40s. Her birth date is recorded as either July 2 or July 24, 1946. Most sources list Winston-Salem as her birthplace, however some say Wake Forest. Public records don’t reveal much about her family, but evidence shows she grew up in a nurturing environment where her creative pursuits thrived.

Vivian’s early years in North Carolina were impacted by the state’s postwar milieu in the late 1940s and early 1950s. She honed her artistic sensibility in this southern setting, but specifics about her early education remain confidential. Her artistic perspective was shaped by the rich folk art and craft traditions of mid-century North Carolina.

Studying art history at Wake Forest University.

Vivian took a decision that would affect her artistic path: she enrolled in Wake Forest University. She decided to pursue art history over studio art, demonstrating her ambition to comprehend both the creation of art and its historical significance.

Her stay at Wake Forest allowed her to learn about artistic movements, techniques, and their cultural significance throughout history. This knowledge base extended beyond merely making art, and it would eventually benefit her own work and capacity to guide others.

The institution expanded Vivian’s creativity by exposing her to fresh perspectives and methodologies. She received her art history degree, which added formal training to her inherent abilities and passion for art. This education distinguished her from other self-taught artists of the time and demonstrated her commitment to her trade.

Early interest in art.

Vivian’s passion for art began far before college. At the age of twelve, she took up her first paintbrush and began to explore her artistic abilities. What began as a hobby suddenly became an integral part of her life. Her first efforts, while not widely documented, laid the groundwork for her lifelong fascination with art.

Vivian stood out because she had:

• An innate ability for visual expression that emerged in childhood.
• Dedicated practice began in her youth.
• A combination of innate skill and acquired technique.

Her commitment to art grew deeper during her adolescent years. She transitioned from casual curiosity to rigorous practice. This early passion to painting, combined with her extensive understanding of art history, resulted in a comprehensive approach to creative.

Vivian had developed both practical and theoretical talents by the time she graduated from college. This combination gave her a distinct position in the art world and led to her meeting with Bob Ross. Her artistic enthusiasm and education became the basis of her identity, independent of her later collaboration with the great painter.

Marriage to Bob Ross.

How Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross Met

Bob Ross and Vivian Ridge’s first meeting is a mystery, with several accounts in historical documents. According to some stories, they originally met in 1961 at Pittsburgh’s WQED-TV station. Vivian oversaw production, while Bob served on the creative team. According to some reports, they were college sweethearts who met while Vivian was attending Wake Forest University.

Their wedding was in 1965.

The pair married in 1965, regardless of how they first met. On August 1, 1966, they began their lives together by welcoming their son, Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross. Steve ended up following in his father’s artistic footsteps. He appeared on his father’s popular show, The Joy of Painting, and later became a qualified painting instructor.

Life of a Military Spouse

Vivian stood with Bob during his military duty years. Bob entered the United States Air Force at the age of 18 in 1961. He began as a medical records technician. His career progressed smoothly, and he eventually became a master sergeant at the Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. Bob discovered his love of painting throughout his 20-year military stint when he took an art class.

Vivian’s assistance throughout Bob’s early painting years

Vivian’s art history knowledge influenced Bob’s developing artistic career. She supported her husband’s creative endeavours and occasionally contributed her own sketches or paintings during broadcasts. When they performed in shows together, the public thought they were the perfect couple.

Their marriage lasted twelve years, until they divorced in 1977. According to many stories, Bob’s reported infidelity was the primary cause of their separation. Bob then married Jane Lee Zanardelli, and Vivian lived separately with their son.

Motherhood & Family Life

Birth of Steve Ross

Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross joined the Ross family on August 1, 1966, one year after Vivian Ridge’s wedding. This new chapter transformed Vivian into a mother and introduced another member to their growing family. Bob already had a child from his adolescence, making Steve his second son.

Vivian’s involvement in Steve’s artistic growth

Even after the couple divorced, Vivian’s education in art history helped to nurture Steve’s artistic abilities. Her knowledge combined seamlessly with Bob’s hands-on techniques. Steve thrived in this creative environment, selling his first picture at the age of twelve.

The young artist eventually followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a certified wet-on-wet painting instructor. Bob’s pleasure was evident during The Joy of Painting segments featuring Steve, as he frequently emphasised his son’s creative ability.

Balancing Art and Parenting

Vivian maintained her artistic interest while parenting Steve. Her life revolved around family and creative pursuits. The household naturally fostered creativity and artistic expression.

Steve’s living position is unclear following their divorce in 1977. Some reports suggest he resided with Vivian until she died, while others claim Bob had complete custody. Whatever the circumstances, both parents had a tremendous influence on his artistic development.

Divorce and Life Following Separation

Reasons for the divorce

Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross’ 12-year marriage terminated in 1977. The official records mention “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for their divorce. Bob’s claimed infidelity proved to be one of the most significant factors in their split. Their relationship deteriorated as Bob’s art career took off and he spent less time at home.

Vivian’s life after divorce.

Vivian wanted to walk away from the spotlight after their breakup. She relocated to North Carolina, and we focused on raising their baby. She never tried to profit from her relationship with Bob through interviews or publications. She had a calm life filled with painting, gardening, and family. Reports suggest she may work in real estate, but information about her employment is sparse.

Her passing occurred in 2018.

Vivian Ridge died on May 3, 2018, at the age of approximately 75. She kept her cancer treatment hidden until the very end. Her death received little attention from the media, which was consistent with how she conducted her life after the divorce.

Public versus private life choices

Vivian preferred a tranquil life away from the spotlight, whilst Bob rose to prominence on television. She avoided “The Joy of Painting” and never participated in any public events related to her ex-husband’s burgeoning celebrity. Their differing approaches to public life reflect Vivian’s strong desire for seclusion. She maintained her secretive nature even in death, with no public funeral or announcements.

Conclusion

Vivian Ridge’s link to one of America’s most adored painters is mostly unknown. Her enthusiasm for drawing began at the age of twelve and led her to Wake Forest University. This artistic experience undoubtedly influenced the household she shared with Bob Ross throughout their 12-year marriage.

Although their relationship ended in 1977, Vivian had a significant impact on Bob’s early artistic development. She reared their son Steve, who eventually pursued his father’s artistic interests. Bob relished his television celebrity, but Vivian pondered her decision and remained nameless following their split. She went to North Carolina and led a quiet life until her death in 2018.

Bob’s public image and Vivian’s private life demonstrated two very different ways of living. Bob’s name became well-known because to “The Joy of Painting,” while Vivian maintained her solitude even as her ex-husband’s celebrity expanded. Much of her narrative is still untold.

Vivian Ridge’s narrative is an important, yet frequently overlooked, chapter in the life of an American cultural icon. Her art history expertise, support during Bob’s military duty, and influence on their son’s artistic career all contributed to the Bob Ross phenomenon, which millions have come to admire. Her story demonstrates how many unsung heroes work behind the scenes to shape the success of famous people.

FAQs

Q1: Who was Vivian Ridge?

Bob Ross’s first wife, Vivian Ridge, was also an artist. She studied art history at Wake Forest University and started painting at the age of twelve. Vivian was instrumental in Bob Ross’s early artistic growth and raising their son, Steve Ross.

Q2: How long were Bob Ross and Vivian Ridge married?

Bob Ross and Vivian Ridge were married for 12 years, 1965-1977. They met in the early 1960s and divorced because of alleged irreconcilable differences.

Q3. Did Vivian Ridge play any role in Bob Ross’ television career?

Unlike Bob Ross, who rose to fame with his television show “The Joy of Painting,” Vivian Ridge preferred to live a secluded life following their divorce. She did not appear on the show or take part in any public programs celebrating her ex-husband’s burgeoning notoriety.

Q4: What happened to Vivian Ridge following her divorce from Bob Ross?

Vivian Ridge withdrew from public life following her divorce and relocated to North Carolina. She concentrated on raising their son while continuing to pursue her passions for painting and gardening. She led a tranquil life till her death in 2018.

Q5. Did Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross have children together?

Yes, Vivian Ridge and Bob Ross had a son, Robert Stephen “Steve” Ross, born on August 1, 1966. Steve followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a licensed painting instructor and making occasional appearances on “The Joy of Painting.”