Ruth DeYoung Kohler II (October 24, 1941 – November 14, 2020) was a museum director and teacher from Wisconsin who championed under-recognized, self-taught artists and vernacular art.
She led the development of the Art Preserve in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, the first museum dedicated to the exhibition and conservation of artist-built environments.
[7] Kohler began working as an art teacher in Beloit, Wisconsin, and then founded the printmaking program at the University of Alberta in Canada.
[13] She also directed the John Michael Kohler Arts Center to preserve over 6,000 objects from Eugene Von Bruenchenhein after his death in 1983.
[1] Mount Kohler was named for Ruth and her brother Herbert Jr., in recognition of their father's financial contribution to the Byrd Antarctic Expedition.
The foundation plans to give away up to US$20 million per year,[20] and aims to provide funds for unconventional forms of art.