In an exciting revelation for art enthusiasts, the very first painting by the legendary Bob Ross from his cherished PBS show “The Joy of Painting” has been placed on sale. Aptly named “A Walk in the Woods,” the masterpiece embodies all the traits that viewers across the globe adored about Ross and his unique approach to art.
Painted live during the show’s inaugural episode in January 1983, this artwork vividly captures a serene woodland landscape, resplendent in shades of gold and blue. Ross’ distinctive “wet on wet” technique is evident, along with the intricate brushwork that makes his pieces so captivating. Of course, no Ross artwork is complete without his trademark “happy little trees,” which feature prominently in this painting. Adding to its authenticity, fans will recognize Ross’ signature in red in the artwork’s lower left corner.
This treasured piece has a fascinating history behind it. After being painted, it was soon acquired by a dedicated volunteer at the Falls Church, Virginia, PBS station, where the initial season of “The Joy of Painting” was broadcast. In November 1983, the painting found a new home when it was purchased during a station fundraising auction. This year, the Minneapolis-based art gallery Modern Artifact procured the image, and Bob Ross Inc subsequently confirmed its authenticity.
Modern Artifact has priced this inimitable piece at a whopping $9.85 million. Interestingly, the gallery is not in a hurry to close the deal. Instead, they’re leaning towards showcasing this exceptional piece in a museum or perhaps a travelling exhibit. Their rationale? Ensure that as many art enthusiasts as possible can admire this significant work.
The demand for Bob Ross’ paintings has seen a substantial uptick. Factors like nostalgia, social media, and a heightened interest in Ross’ magnetic personality have amplified his art’s appeal. Notably, “The Joy of Painting” ran on PBS from 1983 to 1994, holding its ground as a beloved classic akin to PBS’s other gem, “Mister Roger’s Neighborhood.” Even four decades later, Ross continues to inspire countless individuals with his unwavering belief that there’s an innate artist within us all.
