Celebrated painter, naturalist and explorer John James Audubon was many things before he came to symbolize the modern conservation movement. He ran a gristmill, lead mine and general store. The store ultimately failed and resulted in his brief jailing for unpaid debts. After moving to Kentucky – and then Louisiana – Audubon became progressively more interested in nature. In New Orleans, Aububon supported his growing family by painting portraits on the street and teaching drawing.