Thirty paintings by the iconic artist Bob Ross, known for his signature bushy hair and gentle demeanor, will soon be up for auction to support small and rural public television stations in the U.S. facing funding cuts. Bob Ross, a beloved figure in public television during the 1980s and ’90s, dedicated his life to making art accessible to all, according to Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Inc. The upcoming auction at Bonhams in Los Angeles on Nov. 11 will feature three of Ross’s paintings, including “Winter’s Peace,” “Home in the Valley,” and “Cliffside.”
The auctions aim to assist stations that rely on content from American Public Television, with all proceeds going towards licensing fees for popular programs such as “The Best of Joy of Painting,” inspired by Ross’s show. Following budget cuts of $1.1 billion allocated to public broadcasting by Congress at the request of the Trump administration, many PBS and NPR stations are struggling to find alternative funding sources, leading to layoffs and programming reductions.
Bob Ross, who passed away in 1995, gained renewed popularity during the COVID-19 lockdowns for his tranquil painting style and positive affirmations. His calming presence and unique teaching approach resonated with viewers worldwide. The 30 paintings set for auction showcase Ross’s serene landscapes, reflecting his distinctive artistic style and capturing scenes of nature with precision and beauty.
The recent sale of two of Ross’s early 1990s paintings fetched high prices at Bonhams, exceeding initial valuations and setting a new global auction record for the artist. The upcoming auctions of the 30 paintings are estimated to be valued between $850,000 to $1.4 million US, with the potential to raise even more funds for public television.