Denver-based graphic artist Adrienne Ruth is no stranger to the Colorado Avalanche community. Rising to prominence when one of her designs was worn by Nazem Kadri during the 2022 Stanley Cup Victory Parade, Adrienne has since made a name for herself as a creator of hockey-inspired art. Her work with Nazem Kadri and her advocacy during the #StandWithNaz movement demonstrated her passion for using art as a means of support and solidarity within the hockey world. Now, as the 2024 NHL season begins, Adrienne is once again bringing the community together through her latest project—a tribute to the late Gaudreau brothers, Johnny and Matthew.
Every Sticker Has A Story: The Inspiration Behind the Artwork
Adrienne’s involvement in this project began when Avalanche community members and journalists Meghan Angley and Jesse Montano reached out to her in late September with an idea to honor the Gaudreau brothers. Knowing that the Avalanche's home opener was against the Columbus Blue Jackets, where Johnny Gaudreau most recently played, Meghan and Jesse felt it was the perfect moment to create something meaningful.
Recalling Adrienne's impactful work during the "Stand with Naz" movement, they wanted to capture that same spirit of unity by commissioning a piece of artwork that fans could hold at the glass during warm-ups. For Adrienne, the opportunity to be a part of this project was not just an honor—it was a chance to celebrate the legacy of two brothers whose love for the game left a lasting mark on the hockey community.
The Design Process and Symbolism
Adrienne's vision for the artwork was clear: she wanted to portray Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau in a moment of togetherness, arms around each other, symbolizing the iconic arm-in-arm goal celebration hugs that are so familiar in hockey. After researching photos and realizing how few images captured the brothers in this moment, she decided to create it herself.
Her design features the Gaudreau brothers in their jerseys from the three teams that marked their journey—Boston College, Calgary Flames, and the Columbus Blue Jackets. To convey the balance between celebrating their vibrant legacy and acknowledging the tragedy of their loss, Adrienne used vivid colors while casting a slight shadow on the figures. This approach added a layer of mourning to the otherwise lively depiction, creating a powerful tribute to the brothers.
One moment that deeply influenced Adrienne's design process was a tweet from Kelsie Snow, the wife of the late Chris Snow, a Calgary Flames Executive who passed away a little over a year ago after losing his battle with ALS. The tweet read, "I like to think that Johnny and Matt have already signed long-term contracts on the team that Chris Snow is managing up there." Adrienne kept this thought in mind as she crafted the artwork, envisioning the brothers celebrating a goal as their friend and mentor Chris Snow watched on—a full-circle moment that added a touch of hope to the piece.
Honoring the Gaudreau Brothers Through a Fundraiser
To further honor the legacy of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, Adrienne has launched a special fundraiser featuring the 21-13 memorial sticker and pins, with all profits going to Gloucester High School in New Jersey, where both brothers had a strong connection. The school played a significant role in shaping who they became, and this fundraiser aims to give back to the community that supported them.
Johnny Gaudreau had a longstanding commitment to giving back to his alma mater, organizing the Johnny Gaudreau Scholarship Golf Tournament to provide scholarships and tuition assistance to underprivileged students at Gloucester High School. Matthew, who coached at the school before his passing, also left a lasting impact on the students. Adrienne’s goal with the fundraiser is to support future generations of athletes and students, just as the Gaudreau brothers did.
How Fans Can Participate in the Tribute
Adrienne has partnered with Guerilla Sports to encourage hockey fans across the NHL to join in the tribute. Fans are invited to print and bring Adrienne’s artwork to games, especially during warm-ups at the Avalanche home opener, to show their solidarity with the Gaudreau family. This initiative is more than just a gesture—it’s a powerful statement of unity within the hockey community, reminding everyone that even in times of tragedy, hockey brings people together like no other.
As we gather to honor the Gaudreau brothers, let's also keep in mind the importance of celebrating responsibly. If you’re drinking, consider designating a driver or arranging for alternative transportation.
To join the movement and learn more about how to participate, visit the Guerilla Sports website, where you can download Adrienne’s artwork and find information on how to get involved.
Adrienne Ruth’s tribute to the Gaudreau brothers is more than just a piece of art; it’s a celebration of their lives and a testament to the strength of the hockey community. Through her artwork and the accompanying fundraiser, Adrienne is ensuring that Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s legacy lives on, not only on the ice but also in the hearts of fans and future generations.
This simple yet powerful sticker symbolizes the unity, love, and remembrance shared by hockey fans worldwide. As the 2024 NHL season kicks off, let's honor the Gaudreau brothers by coming together in support of this meaningful cause—because in hockey, just like in life, no one stands alone.