Bob Ross Paintings to be Auctioned for U.S. Public Television Benefit
The auction house Bonhams is set to sell several iconic paintings by the esteemed television painter Bob Ross. Proceeds from these sales will support public television, following considerable funding cuts endorsed by former President Donald Trump’s administration. Over $1 billion earmarked for public broadcasting was reduced by Congress last year.
Previous Bob Ross Auctions
In a previous auction, Bonhams offered 30 paintings donated by Bob Ross Inc. to aid public television. The initial three works sold in November 2022, achieving a remarkable total of $662,000. Notably, Ross’s piece, Winter’s Peace (1993), set a record by selling for $318,000, including fees. Just weeks later, his painting Cabin at Sunset (1987) broke that record by garnering over $1 million during an online charity auction for the Public Media Bridge Fund, organized by John Oliver.
Upcoming Auction Details
The next auction featuring Bob Ross’s works is scheduled for January 27, 2023, in Massachusetts. This auction is titled “Americana: Crafting a Nation: Art, History & Legacy,” and it is expected to raise up to $155,000 collectively for three paintings.
Featured Bob Ross Paintings
- Valley View (1990): Estimated to sell for $30,000 to $50,000. This was the first painting completed for the 21st volume of his instructional book series, Joy of Painting.
- Change of Seasons (1990): Expected to fetch between $40,000 and $60,000. This piece was painted live on the 11th episode of the 20th season of The Joy of Painting.
- Babbling Brook (1993): A unique oval-shaped painting estimated to sell for $25,000 to $45,000. This work was created during the first episode of the 30th season and features Ross’s famous style of spontaneous landscape creation.
Future Sales
Looking ahead, Bonhams plans to auction an additional 24 Bob Ross paintings throughout the year in their salesrooms located in New York, Boston, and Los Angeles. Each painting reflects Ross’s talent and his connection to the public, which this auction seeks to support through the arts. Bob Ross’s legacy continues to inspire both collectors and enthusiasts alike.
