Decades after Bob Ross’s television show “The Joy Of Painting” aired, he still remains a cultural icon. His timeless art has been an inspiration to artists–and even many people uninterested in art–who have been intrigued by Ross’ quiet and calming appeal, as noted by the 6.3 million subscribers to his official YouTube account. Even after his death, and long after the show ended in 1994, “The Joy Of Painting” allows viewers to take a second, breathe, and recognize that mistakes are okay.
“We don’t make mistakes, just happy accidents,” is one of Ross’ most famous sayings.
Ross’ works are more than just a piece of art work, they are a source of creative escape and expression. He managed to turn something so common such as art, into his own.
Ross was born in Daytona Beach, Florida, and raised in Orlando. Art wasn’t the only thing Ross was interested in or good at. As an adolescent, he cared for various kinds of injured animals, such as snakes, armadillos, and even alligators. At one point, he even enlisted in the United States Air Force, and was put into service as a medical records technician. When Ross dropped out of high school in the ninth grade, he began working with his dad as a carpenter, and ultimately lost his index finger. This loss appears to have had no affect on his ability to paint masterpieces, which is pretty impressive.
The biggest factor explaining Ross’ appeal is his art’s accessibility. His method of teaching makes it easy to understand, and his methods suggest that anyone can create art, especially if you allowing room for mistakes, unlike many other art instructors. Art often has this stigma around it that it needs to be perfect, but in reality, that’s far from the truth. Art doesn’t need to be perfect; the imperfections are what gives it a beautiful story. Ross always made sure to get that point across, noting “Any way you want it to be, that’s just right.”
Even though Ross died in July of 1995, his name and legacy has continued. His show is still streamed on multiple platforms, with various YouTube compilations allowing his name to stay relevant. This speaks volumes on his character, as he was one of a kind. His calmness, and ability to show that mistakes are okay is admirable and rare. Ross is not only a painter, but a symbol of calmness, patience, and resilience that many, still to this day, look up to. He reminds us that it’s okay to slow down and take your time, something which I feel is lacking nowadays.
Ross’s appeal goes beyond just painting and teaching methods; he exudes a sense of calmness and encouragement, creating a sense of relativity and inspiration. There is something so peaceful and calming about watching him talk and paint, especially in a world that seems to be so unforgiving, something that I hope will continue to live on.
If you want to check out Bob Ross, you can find over 900 of his videos at
