Three original paintings by the renowned television artist Bob Ross will be auctioned in Marlborough, Massachusetts, next week, with proceeds benefiting public media. The auction, organized by Bonhams Skinner, features the works titled “Change of Seasons,” “Babbling Brook,” and “Valley View.” Each painting showcases Ross’s signature style, characterized by serene landscapes adorned with “happy little trees.”
The auction is scheduled to begin at noon on January 27, 2024. Fans of “The Joy of Painting” now have a unique opportunity to own a piece of art while supporting public television—a cause that was dear to Ross’s heart. Joan Kowalski, the CEO of Bob Ross Inc. and daughter of Ross’s business partners, initiated the auction to honor his legacy. Kowalski noted that previous auctions of Ross’s work have yielded unexpectedly high bids, making this event particularly promising.
According to Kowalski, the auction house anticipates the paintings will sell for between $25,000 and $60,000 each. “Change of Seasons” is expected to attract the highest bids. Robin Starr, vice president and general manager of Bonhams Skinner, expressed optimism about the auction’s potential success, stating, “There has already been a lot of interest in the pieces.”
The significance of these paintings extends beyond their artistic value. The proceeds from this auction will support American Public Television, which provides content to public stations across the country. Judy Barlow, vice president of growth at American Public Television, shared that the previous auction’s success allowed them to waive licensing fees for stations for an entire year—a substantial benefit given recent funding challenges following the withdrawal of federal support.
Bidding will take place in person, online, or via telephone. For those unable to participate financially, Bonhams Skinner invites the public to preview the artworks for free, starting Thursday. This opportunity allows art enthusiasts to appreciate the intricate details of Ross’s work, including the soft hues of the sky and the dynamic textures of the water in “Change of Seasons.”
As the auction date approaches, the excitement surrounding these iconic pieces continues to grow, offering a rare chance to connect with Bob Ross’s artistic legacy while contributing to the future of public television.
