“Rudy had an incredible talent for seeing the beauty in the mundane, from the bumps on a gourd to the rust on an abandoned streetcar. And through his paintings, he showed me the beauty in these things too.” – Friend, Sarah Sharp
Rudolph “Rudy” Sparkuhl was a gifted artist and a quiet observer of the world around him. Born in Germany and later making London his home, he specialized in photorealistic paintings that found beauty in the ordinary—rusting machinery, vintage streetcars, and everyday objects transformed into art.
His reputation as an artist was well recognized in London’s art community. “When we were launching one of our first realism shows, I had to convince artists to participate,” recalls Al Stewart, co-owner of Westland Gallery and Rudy’s London art dealer. “Once Rudy agreed to be part of the show, the rest was easy. Other artists immediately signed on, and when the exhibition opened, they all came to see Rudy’s work.”
Even with the praise his art received, Rudy remained humble. He wanted others to see the beauty he saw in the world and feel something through his work.
He lived simply, dedicating his life to his craft rather than material wealth. A lifelong learner, Rudy treasured the time he spent at London Public Library, immersed in books and ideas. Though mostly solitary, he was deeply thoughtful, kind-hearted, and sensitive to those in need. His connection to the Library was not just as a reader but as someone who found inspiration, community, and belonging within its walls.
While Rudy was a quiet presence at the Library, his impact will be lasting. Upon his passing, Rudy left a remarkable gift of $500,000 to London Public Library to support its highest-priority needs. His generosity will help transform Sherwood Branch Library into a vibrant community hub—a place where families, children, and lifelong learners can gather.
With his gift, we are creating a welcoming commons space in the heart of the Sherwood Branch, ensuring that future generations have access to the same enrichment, inspiration, and knowledge that meant so much to him. In addition to his financial contribution, Rudy’s art will be permanently displayed at Sherwood Branch, honouring his legacy and reminding visitors of the beauty he found in the world around him.
Rudy believed that art and knowledge should be accessible to all. His generosity ensures that the Library will continue to be a place where people can find meaning and connection. Through his gift, his passion for learning and artistic expression will live on, enriching the lives of countless community members for years to come.
Thank you, Rudy, for your extraordinary generosity. Your legacy will continue to inspire and uplift others, just as your art has done throughout your life.
