Artist: Bob Ross
Title: Alaskan Northern Lights and Mountain Cabin
Medium: Original Oil on Velvet inside Gold Pan
Year: Circa 1971
Pan Size: 16.5" x 16.5"
Frame Size: 20.5" x 20.5" x 4"
Inscription: Signed "Ross" on bottom front
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity
Before developing his signature wet-on-wet technique featured on The Joy of Painting, Bob Ross primarily worked with oil on velvet, a medium that demanded precision and control. During the 1960s and 1970s, he frequently mounted these velvet paintings inside gold pans, a nod to his years spent in Alaska. These works represent an early and formative period in Ross's artistic career, showcasing his technical skill and evolving style.
This original painting, Alaskan Northern Lights and Mountain Cabin, depicts a winter landscape illuminated by vibrant auroras. A rustic log cabin sits nestled among snow-covered pines, with towering mountains in the distance. The aurora borealis, rendered in brilliant hues, sweeps across the night sky, its luminosity heightened by the deep black velvet background. The use of velvet enhances the intensity of color and contrast, bringing depth and atmosphere to the scene. Encased within a 16.5-inch gold pan, this piece reflects Ross's connection to the Alaskan wilderness and his early mastery of dramatic lighting effects.
This rare work is signed "Ross" on the lower front and includes a gallery certificate of authenticity. As an example of Ross's pre-television artistry, this painting provides insight into his development as a painter and his enduring fascination with nature's beauty.
About Bob Ross
Bob Ross, born on October 29, 1942, in Daytona Beach, Florida, is a name synonymous with serene landscapes, happy little trees, and the pure joy of painting. Raised in Orlando, Florida, Ross grew up with a deep appreciation for nature, which later became the cornerstone of his artistic vision. Before becoming a cultural icon, Ross served 20 years in the United States Air Force. It was during his time stationed in Alaska that he fell in love with the rugged beauty of the wilderness, an inspiration that would later define his work.
Ross's art journey began while on military duty when he took up painting as a hobby. Inspired by the techniques of Bill Alexander, a German artist and TV host, Ross adopted the "wet-on-wet" painting technique, which allowed him to complete an entire painting in under 30 minutes. This method not only revolutionized how art could be taught but also made painting accessible to people of all skill levels.
In 1983, Ross launched his iconic television series, The Joy of Painting. Filmed with a humble set, soft-spoken instructions, and a signature perm hairstyle, Ross quickly captivated audiences with his calming voice and approachable teaching style. The show ran for 11 years, producing over 400 episodes and inspiring millions to pick up a brush. His catchphrases, like "happy little trees" and "there are no mistakes, only happy accidents," turned him into a cultural phenomenon.
Ross's paintings typically depict tranquil scenes of nature—majestic mountains, serene lakes, and cozy cabins nestled in forests. While his works may not have been embraced by the fine art world during his lifetime, they resonated deeply with ordinary people, many of whom had never painted before. Ross believed art should be joyful and free from intimidation, an ethos that continues to inspire generations of aspiring artists.
Behind the easel, Ross was a kind-hearted and philanthropic individual. He used his fame to teach art in schools, hospitals, and prisons, offering hope and creativity to those in need. Though he passed away in 1995 at the age of 52 after battling lymphoma, his legacy endures.
Today, Bob Ross remains an enduring symbol of positivity and creativity. His episodes are streamed worldwide, and his original paintings are highly sought after by collectors. More than just an artist, Bob Ross brought the joy of creation to millions and proved that art, at its core, is about expressing happiness and embracing imperfection.