Bob Ross Original Painting Signed 18” x 24” Winter Landscape Authentic Oil on Canvas

Artist: Bob Ross
Title: Untitled, Similar to "Snowfall" from season 1, episode 12 of "The Joy of Painting"
Dimensions: 18" x 24"
Medium: Original Oil on Canvas Painting
Year: 1983
Inscription: Signed and dated "Ross 83" in red, lower left front with inscription "To Gary"
Documentation: Includes a Certificate of Authenticity from Bob Ross Inc.

This original Bob Ross painting, created in 1983, captures the serene beauty of a sunny winter day. Echoing the themes of "Snowfall", from Season 1, Episode 12 of The Joy of Painting, the piece is a quintessential example of Ross's neo-realist style, characterized by its meticulous attention to detail and emotive portrayal of natural landscapes.

The painting features a breathtaking winter scene where frost-covered trees line the banks of an icy stream that winds through the composition, leading the viewer's eye towards majestic, snow-covered mountain peaks in the distance. The crisp sunlight bathes the scene in a soft, golden glow, creating a striking contrast between the cool tones of the snow and the warm light of the winter day. Ross's masterful use of the "wet-on-wet" technique is evident in the smooth blending of colors and the subtle gradations of light and shadow that give the painting its depth and realism.

Ross's attention to detail is particularly evident in the delicate portrayal of the frost on the trees, each branch meticulously rendered to convey the texture and fragility of the winter landscape. The icy stream, with its glass-like surface, reflects the surrounding environment, adding to the painting's sense of tranquility and stillness. The snow-covered mountains, towering in the background, are a testament to Ross's skill in capturing the grandeur of nature, their peaks sharply defined against the clear winter sky.

This piece is signed and dated "Ross 83" in the lower left corner, with a personal inscription, "To Gary", adding a touch of intimacy and history to the work. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from Bob Ross Inc., this painting not only represents Ross's artistic talent but also his ability to connect with viewers on a personal level, inviting them into the peaceful world he created with each brushstroke.

This piece is currently not framed. The photo showing the frame is a mockup of a frame and what it would look like framed. If you would like the piece framed we can work with our local framer at our discounted price to pick out the perfect frame for your home.

This untitled original oil painting is a remarkable example of Bob Ross's enduring legacy, embodying the warmth and positivity that continue to inspire art lovers around the world.

About Bob Ross

Bob Ross is widely recognized as one of the most beloved figures in the world of art, particularly for his role as the creator and host of the television show "The Joy of Painting". Over the course of his career, Ross became an icon of the late 20th century, known for his soothing voice, calm demeanor, and his ability to make painting accessible and enjoyable to millions of viewers. His approach to art and life left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and comfort people around the world.

Born Robert Norman Ross on October 29, 1942, in Daytona Beach, Florida, Bob Ross's journey to becoming an art icon was anything but conventional. Before his career in painting, Ross served in the United States Air Force for 20 years, primarily stationed in Alaska. It was during his time in the military that he first began experimenting with painting, using it as a way to relax and escape from the stress of his duties. Alaska's vast, rugged landscapes deeply influenced his work, inspiring the serene and majestic scenes that would later become his signature.

In 1981, after retiring from the Air Force, Ross decided to pursue his passion for painting full-time. However, his early years as an artist were fraught with financial challenges. In a bid to save money, Ross adopted his now-iconic permed hairstyle, a look that he famously disliked but maintained throughout his life because it had become an integral part of his public image.

Ross's artistic style was characterized by his use of the "wet-on-wet" or "Alla Prima" technique, a method dating back to the Renaissance. This approach allowed him to complete an entire painting in a short period of time, making it ideal for his television program. His landscapes, typically filled with "happy little trees", clouds, lakes, streams, and the occasional cabin, resonated with viewers. As an ardent environmentalist, Ross often included small animals in his paintings, and he sometimes brought live animals, like squirrels and birds, to the studio, delighting his audience. Despite his immense popularity and the creation of around 30,000 paintings, Ross rarely sold his works. Apart from the occasional gold pans he distributed in Alaska, most of his paintings were donated to charity or used as promotional material for his show.

"The Joy of Painting", which aired from 1983 to 1994, became a cultural phenomenon, with over 400 episodes produced. The show not only showcased Ross's artistic talent but also his philosophy that anyone could learn to paint with practice and patience. His famous saying, "We don't make mistakes, just happy little accidents", encapsulated his positive outlook and encouraged countless individuals to pick up a paintbrush for the first time. Ross's warm, encouraging presence made him a comforting figure in many viewers' lives, and his impact extended far beyond the canvas.

Although Ross passed away on July 4, 1995, at the age of 52 from lymphoma, his legacy continues to thrive. In the years following his death, his work experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly through the internet. In 2015, his official YouTube channel began streaming episodes of "The Joy of Painting", introducing his work to a new generation. The following year, Netflix began streaming "Beauty is Everywhere", a collection of episodes from his show. Ross has since become a cultural icon, honored with tributes ranging from Google Doodles to birthday celebrations, and his phrases and gentle wisdom have permeated popular culture.

Bob Ross's influence on art and popular culture is immeasurable. Through his gentle guidance, he brought the joy of painting to millions, making art accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. His legacy as a teacher, artist, and icon continues to grow, proving that his simple yet profound belief — that there are no mistakes, only "happy little accidents" — resonates as deeply today as it did during his lifetime.