Three iconic paintings by renowned television artist Bob Ross will go up for auction on January 27, 2024, in Marlborough, Massachusetts. The auction, organized by Bonhams Skinner, aims to support public media, allowing fans of “The Joy of Painting” to acquire original works while contributing to a worthy cause. The paintings available include “Change of Seasons,” “Babbling Brook,” and “Valley View,” each showcasing Ross’s signature style of tranquil nature scenes populated by his famous “happy little trees.”
Joan Kowalski, CEO of Bob Ross Inc. and the daughter of Ross’s business partners, inspired the auction. She noted that previous auctions of Ross’s work have often yielded unexpectedly high bids. Kowalski emphasized the importance of public television to Ross, stating, “He wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else.” The upcoming auction is particularly notable as it is the first time these paintings will be publicly displayed outside of their original broadcasts.
According to Kowalski, the auction house anticipates each painting will attract bids between $25,000 and $60,000. “Change of Seasons” is expected to garner the highest interest. Robin Starr, vice president and general manager of Bonhams Skinner, expressed optimism about the auction’s potential, noting significant pre-auction interest. “Auction people are a little like baseball people, so we don’t want to jinx things by saying what we think they’re going to do, but I think we can assume they’re going to do quite well,” she said.
The auction is poised to have a broader impact beyond individual collectors. Judy Barlow, vice president of growth at American Public Television, highlighted the financial benefits from previous auctions. Proceeds have already enabled public television stations to waive licensing fees for a year, significantly easing the financial burdens faced by broadcasters, particularly following cuts to federal funding.
The auction will begin at noon, with interested bidders able to participate in person, online, or via phone. For those unable to bid, a free preview of the artworks will be available starting Thursday. Starr encouraged the public to experience the paintings firsthand, noting the intricate details that often do not translate through screens, such as the soft sky colors and textured water effects.
This auction not only presents a unique opportunity for art collectors but also serves as a tribute to Bob Ross’s lasting legacy in public broadcasting.
