Ruth Cole Kainen (February 19, 1922 – September 13, 2009) was a major art collector and benefactor (with her husband, the artist Jacob Kainen [1909–2001]).
The Kainens collected paintings, drawings, engravings and prints, dating from the 15th century to modern times.
Born in Rosboro, Arkansas, Kainen grew up in Oregon, where her family owned and operated the Rosboro Timber and Lumber company.
After earning a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Oregon in 1942, she joined the U.S. Navy WAVES and served during World War II.
In 1950, she studied music and received a second bachelor's degree at Yale University.