Bob Ross

Who Was Bob Ross?

Bob Ross was an American painter and television host best known for his PBS series The Joy of Painting, where he taught millions of viewers the “wet-on-wet” oil painting technique. Born in 1942, Ross discovered his passion for painting while serving in the U.S. Air Force. His calming presence, gentle humor, and distinctive appearance endeared him to audiences, making him an iconic figure in American pop culture. After his death in 1995, Ross’s legacy has only grown, with a new generation discovering his work through digital platforms like YouTube and Twitch.

Early Life

Robert Norman Ross was born on October 29, 1942, in Daytona, Florida. Raised in Orlando, Ross dropped out of high school in the ninth grade to work with his father as a carpenter. It was during this time that he lost part of his left index finger in an accident, though it did not affect his painting ability. Ross joined the U.S. Air Force in 1961, serving for 20 years. He reached the rank of first sergeant, but he disliked his role as a disciplinarian, vowing to adopt a more gentle demeanor after his military career.

Artistic Beginnings

Ross’s passion for painting began while stationed in Alaska, where the majestic landscapes inspired him. He started selling quick landscape paintings to tourists, honing his skills. In the mid-1970s, Ross discovered the German painter William Alexander’s The Magic of Oil Painting, which introduced him to the “wet-on-wet” technique. This method allowed him to complete paintings quickly, with multiple layers applied without waiting for previous ones to dry. By 1981, Ross retired from the Air Force to pursue painting full-time.

Painting Career

Ross studied under William Alexander before striking out on his own, thanks to the support of Annette Kowalski, a student who became his business partner. Together, they formed Bob Ross Inc., which expanded into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. Despite his success, Ross faced criticism from Alexander, who accused him of copying his style.

Ross’s signature permed hairstyle became a key part of his brand, though he later expressed regret about the decision, as it became tied to his company’s logo.

“The Joy of Painting”

In 1983, Ross launched The Joy of Painting on PBS, which aired for over a decade. He became famous for his soothing voice, encouraging viewers with phrases like, “We don’t make mistakes—just happy accidents.” The show’s success spawned a range of instructional books, videos, and art supplies, making Ross a household name. During his career, Ross produced around 30,000 paintings, many of which were donated to charities and PBS stations.

Health Issues and Death

In 1994, Ross ended The Joy of Painting to focus on his health. He had long suffered from various health issues, including two heart attacks and two bouts of cancer. His battle with lymphoma ultimately claimed his life on July 4, 1995, at the age of 52.

Legacy

Despite his passing, Ross’s influence continues to grow. His calming approach to art has inspired a new generation of fans, and his works remain popular on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. In 2021, Netflix released a documentary titled Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed, exploring his life and the legal battles surrounding his estate. Ross remains one of America’s most beloved and recognizable artists, his gentle philosophy of embracing “happy accidents” still resonating with audiences today.