A Tale of Two Ralphs
Did you know there were two very talented Ralph's running around in the 1950's? Often confused by name alone, both were very talented artists that left behind quite the visual legacy.
Ralph Johnstone (left, wearing a hat)
Photo credit: Great Lakes Tattoo
Art credit: LS Tattoo Museum
Ralph Ernest Johnstone (1904-1960) "Sailor Russ" stands out as a revered figure in the history of tattooing, particularly in Chicago. Known for his exceptional skills in both tattoo application and flash designs, Johnstone's artistic genius set him apart from his peers. Despite his gruff exterior, he possessed a formal childhood art training that wasn't widely known within the tattoo community. A rediscovered oil painting from 1937, depicting an opium den scene, showcased the depth of his artistic education. Johnstone's influence extended beyond tattooing, encompassing sideshows and carnival art. His talents were acknowledged by fellow artists and carnival operators alike. In the late 1950s, he returned to Chicago, partnering with Tatts Thomas, and left an indelible mark on the city's tattoo scene until his death in 1960.
Ralph Johnson (Right, shirtless)
Photo credit: Lyle Tuttle, THE TATTOO ART OF MYSTERY LEGEND R. JOHNSON, VOLUME 1
Art Credit: LS Tattoo Museum
In comparison to Ralph Johnstone’s published history, little has been written on Ralph J. Johnson. It is known that he worked in the circuses and side shows, and frequented Long Beach, California, in the 1950’s as a few flash sheets have turned up in that area. Alledgedly he was constantly mixed up with the aforementioned Johnstone and there is even mention that photos exist of both Ralph’s together, possibly during their circus days. A book published by Lyle Tuttle entitled THE TATTOO ART OF MYSTERY LEGEND R. JOHNSON, VOLUME 1 is the most history of Ralph Johnson that I could find. The book is appropriately titled, as "R. Johnson" is such an enigma that I could not even find the spelling of his first name in articles published online.
One thing I find most curious is that "R. Johnson" has many more signed flash sheets in circulation than Johnstone, even though there is seemingly less written and known about him.
🖌️ What are your thoughts?
I'd love to expand the written history of "R. Johnson," so feel free to reply to this email with any information or sources.