For the first time, some original Bob Ross paintings — all created live on his iconic Joy of Painting PBS series — are headed to auction. But this isn’t just for collectors of happy little trees. The proceeds will directly support public television stations across the country.
Ross, who became a household name with his soft-spoken encouragement and wet-on-wet oil painting techniques, filmed more than 400 episodes of The Joy of Painting from 1983 to 1994. Although he died in 1995, his work lives on — streaming on Hulu, airing on PBS and even inspiring Twitch marathons.
What some fans may not know is that Ross was a man of quiet but steady faith. While he didn’t preach on air, his worldview — grounded in gentleness, redemption and second chances — reflected the values he held as a Christian. That perspective shaped everything from his teaching style to his now-iconic belief that “there are no mistakes, only happy accidents.”
Now, nonprofit broadcaster American Public Television is teaming up with Bonhams auction house to sell 30 Ross originals — all painted during on-air episodes. The goal is to raise up to $1.4 million to help PBS stations stay afloat after federal funding cuts.
Congress recently rolled back $1.1 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. As a result, stations across the country have faced layoffs, programming reductions and, in some cases, permanent closures.
The Ross auction proceeds will help stations cover licensing fees for the Create channel — home to shows like America’s Test Kitchen, Rick Steves’ Europe, and The Best of the Joy of Painting. Smaller and rural stations are expected to benefit the most.
The first three paintings, including Winter’s Peace from a 1993 episode, will be auctioned Nov. 11 in Los Angeles. The remaining pieces will be sold throughout 2026 in New York and Boston.
Ross rarely sold his work. The paintings he did on his iconic show have remained in storage ever since. That makes this auction a rare opportunity for collectors — and a meaningful one for fans who want to support the platform that launched him.
“His gentle teaching style and positive philosophy made him a cultural icon whose influence extends far beyond the art world,” Bonhams said in a statement.
And now, nearly 30 years after his final episode aired, Ross’ legacy — shaped in part by his faith — is still bringing color and comfort to millions.
