Bob Ross

Bob Ross (October 29, 1942 – July 4, 1995) was an American painter, art instructor, and television host. He was the creator and host of The Joy of Painting, an instructional television program that aired from 1983 to 1994 on PBS in the United States.

Early life

Ross was born in Daytona Beach, Florida and raised in Orlando, Florida. As a child, Ross entertained himself by caring for injured animals, purportedly including an armadillo, snake, and alligator.

Military career

Before Ross launched his painting career, he served in the United States Air Force. He enlisted at 18 years old and served as a medical records technician. He eventually rose to the rank of master sergeant and served as the first sergeant of the U.S. Air Force Clinic at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska.

Painting career

Ross discovered his penchant for painting after attending an art class at the Anchorage U.S.O. club. He studied the "wet-on-wet" technique, which allowed him to produce complete paintings in less than an hour. He became well known for his fast and easy-to-follow painting methods, which he later taught on his television show, The Joy of Painting.

The Joy of Painting

The Joy of Painting was an American half-hour instructional television show hosted by Ross. He became well known for his soft-spoken and gentle demeanor, as well as his iconic permed hair. Each episode featured Ross teaching techniques for landscape oil painting, with each painting being completed in real time.

Personal life and death

Ross was diagnosed with lymphoma in the early 1990s, which eventually led to his retirement. He passed away in 1995 at the age of 52.

Legacy

Ross remains a prominent figure in popular culture, symbolizing the joy of creation and the accessibility of art. His work continues to inspire artists and non-artists alike, with his show still being broadcast in many countries around the world.

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