News
October 09, 2025
Dozens of Bob Ross paintings will be auctioned to help public TV after funding cuts
Thirty of Ross' trademark landscapes will be sold at a series of auctions starting in November. He painted many of them live on The Joy of Painting, which started airing on PBS in the 1980s.
Thirty iconic paintings by the beloved artist Bob Ross are heading to the auction block this November, offering fans a unique opportunity to own a piece of television history while simultaneously supporting public broadcasting. The auctions are a direct response to recent funding cuts impacting public television stations across the nation, aiming to bolster their financial stability and ensure continued programming for communities.
Ross, known for his gentle demeanor, soothing voice, and signature afro, became a household name through his instructional television program, "The Joy of Painting." The show, which premiered on PBS in the 1980s, captivated audiences with Ross's simple yet effective painting techniques, encouraging viewers of all skill levels to embrace their creativity. His mantra of "happy little trees" and "happy accidents" became ingrained in popular culture.
The paintings being offered for sale are not just any artworks; they are artifacts from the show itself. Many of these landscapes were created live on air, demonstrating Ross's step-by-step process for viewers at home. Each brushstroke, each carefully placed highlight, carries the weight of nostalgia and the memory of countless individuals who found solace and inspiration in Ross's teachings.
The decision to auction off these paintings was not taken lightly. Public television executives recognized the immense value, both artistic and sentimental, that these works hold. They believe that offering them to collectors and fans is a powerful way to generate significant funds to offset the impact of recent budgetary constraints. The funds generated from the auctions will directly support the production and distribution of educational and enriching content provided by public television stations, ensuring that these vital resources remain accessible to all.
The auctions are expected to draw considerable interest from art collectors, Bob Ross enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the enduring legacy of "The Joy of Painting." The starting bids have not yet been announced, but given the rarity and historical significance of these pieces, experts anticipate that they will fetch substantial sums. This is more than just an art sale; it's an opportunity to invest in the future of public broadcasting and celebrate the enduring power of art to inspire and connect us all.
Ross, known for his gentle demeanor, soothing voice, and signature afro, became a household name through his instructional television program, "The Joy of Painting." The show, which premiered on PBS in the 1980s, captivated audiences with Ross's simple yet effective painting techniques, encouraging viewers of all skill levels to embrace their creativity. His mantra of "happy little trees" and "happy accidents" became ingrained in popular culture.
The paintings being offered for sale are not just any artworks; they are artifacts from the show itself. Many of these landscapes were created live on air, demonstrating Ross's step-by-step process for viewers at home. Each brushstroke, each carefully placed highlight, carries the weight of nostalgia and the memory of countless individuals who found solace and inspiration in Ross's teachings.
The decision to auction off these paintings was not taken lightly. Public television executives recognized the immense value, both artistic and sentimental, that these works hold. They believe that offering them to collectors and fans is a powerful way to generate significant funds to offset the impact of recent budgetary constraints. The funds generated from the auctions will directly support the production and distribution of educational and enriching content provided by public television stations, ensuring that these vital resources remain accessible to all.
The auctions are expected to draw considerable interest from art collectors, Bob Ross enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the enduring legacy of "The Joy of Painting." The starting bids have not yet been announced, but given the rarity and historical significance of these pieces, experts anticipate that they will fetch substantial sums. This is more than just an art sale; it's an opportunity to invest in the future of public broadcasting and celebrate the enduring power of art to inspire and connect us all.
Category:
Entertainment