Nick Ruth

Nick Ruth is a Professor of Art at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, where he has been a faculty member since 1994. He holds an M.F.A. in Painting from Southern Methodist University and a B.A. in Studio Art from Pomona College. He currently holds the Class of ’64 Endowed Professorship, a recognition of his sustained excellence in scholarship and teaching.

• M.F.A. in Painting, Southern Methodist University
• B.A. in Studio Art, Pomona College

His research and artistic practice focus on printmaking, painting, and drawing, with a deep engagement in conceptual paradox and the expressive potential of craft. His work explores the boundaries between representation and abstraction, often using serial formats and layered media to investigate visual language and perception.

His recent artistic output, particularly the This Place and Signs series from 2022, demonstrates a sophisticated use of screenprint monoprint, gouache, colored pencil, and mixed media techniques like pochoir, flocking, and laser-cut elements. These works are exhibited nationally and internationally, appearing in major venues such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the New York Public Library Print Collection.

• Honorable Mention, Made In New York Exhibition (2023)
• Purchase and Second Place Awards, Minot State University (2022)
• Best in Show, Southern Printmaking Biennale (2014)
• Award for Excellence in Scholarship, HWS (2015)
• New York State Council on the Arts Grants (2009, 2002, 2000)

Nick Ruth is an active mentor and educator, having advised student exhibitions and contributed to the academic community through curatorial projects and visiting artist lectures. He has curated significant exhibitions such as Nice Place to Visit and The Worth of Water, fostering dialogue around contemporary art. His work is supported by ongoing faculty research grants, and he continues to push the boundaries of printmaking and mixed media art.

He maintains an active studio practice and is a member of professional organizations including the Southern Graphics Council International and the Mid-America Print Council.