Bob Ross Paintings Auction Will Support Public TV Stations

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Everyone fondly remembers Bob Ross, the beloved painter known for his soothing voice and cheerful attitude. For many years, he brought joy to viewers on PBS with his famous “happy little trees” and uplifting spirit. Today, his art is being used for an even greater cause.

Paintings by the famous artist and television personality will be sold at auction to help public TV stations that have experienced funding reductions due to cuts made during the Trump administration.

Bonhams auction house will be selling thirty paintings by Bob Ross in a series of auctions. The first auction is scheduled for November 11th in Los Angeles and will include three landscapes: “Cliffside” (1990), “Winter’s Peace” (1993), and “Home in the Valley” (1993). All three paintings feature peaceful scenes and are signed by Ross in the lower left corner.

Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Inc., explained that this auction will help continue Bob Ross’s mission of making art available to all, as he did for so many years on television, bringing happiness and inspiration into homes across America.

I truly believe there’s no better way to honor his art than by helping public television continue its important work of educating and inspiring people. That’s what he would have wanted, I think.

Trump Administration Cuts Over a Billion Dollars in Funding

Public broadcasting has faced significant challenges since the Trump administration reduced its funding. In May, President Trump signed an order blocking $1.1 billion in funding from NPR and PBS, claiming they presented news coverage that was unfair and favored one political side.

The decision meant hundreds of NPR and PBS stations had to look for new ways to finance their operations. This led to things like urgent fundraising campaigns, program reductions, and staff layoffs. Bonhams stated that all proceeds from the auction will be used to support American Public Television and PBS stations across the country.

Bonhams estimates the collection of 30 paintings is worth between $850,000 and $1.4 million. They plan to hold upcoming auctions in London, New York, Boston, and online.

Bob Ross, the gentle host of the popular TV show *The Joy of Painting*, brought happiness to many viewers. The show, which taught people how to paint, aired on PBS from 1983 to 1994. He was known for his positive attitude and taught everyone that there’s no such thing as a mistake – just a “happy accident.” Though he died in 1995, his inspiring message continues to resonate with people today.

Nearly all of the 30 paintings being auctioned were completed during a single 30-minute television episode. Bob Ross’s artwork continues to be cherished and keeps his memory alive.

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2025-10-09 02:03