Thirty paintings by the iconic Bob Ross, known for his bushy hair and gentle demeanor, will be auctioned off to support small and rural public television stations facing funding cuts. The auction, organized by Bonhams in Los Angeles, will feature three of Ross’s creations on Nov. 11, with additional auctions scheduled in London, New York, Boston, and online.
The upcoming auction will include Ross’s works from 1990 and 1993, such as “Winter’s Peace,” “Home in the Valley,” and “Cliffside,” reflecting his signature style of serene landscapes. Proceeds from the auction will benefit stations airing programs like “The Best of Joy of Painting” and “This Old House,” helping them cover licensing fees amid reduced federal support.
Following budget reductions amounting to $1.1 billion for public broadcasting, stations nationwide are grappling with financial challenges, prompting some to resort to emergency fundraising and operational cutbacks. The legacy of Bob Ross, who passed away in 1995, endures through his popular instructional show and continues to resonate with audiences, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
With an estimated total value of $850,000 to $1.4 million, the auctioned paintings hold significant financial potential to aid public TV stations. Notably, recent sales of Ross’s artworks have surpassed initial valuations, indicating a promising outcome for supporting public television through the auction proceeds.
