An original painting by beloved television artist Bob Ross sold for $47,500 at a Towson auction on Friday, surpassing the expected price range by more than $10,000. The 1987 oil painting, titled "Lake With Cabin & Trees," drew significant interest from bidders who pushed the final sale price well above the anticipated $20,000-$30,000 range set by Alex Cooper Auctioneers.
Bidding for the artwork began at $10,000 on Friday, according to the auction website. The painting represents one of the rare original works by Ross that occasionally appear at public auctions, making it a coveted piece for collectors and fans of the iconic PBS television personality.
The painting carries special significance due to its personal history and provenance. Ross originally gifted the artwork to his close personal friends Sidney and Dorothy Knudsen in 1987. The piece features a heartfelt inscription in Ross's own handwriting that reads: "To Sid and Dorothy, Two very special friends – wishing you both every success – Happy Painting, Bob Ross, 1987." This personal touch adds considerable value and authenticity to the work, demonstrating the artist's genuine relationships with those around him.
The painting's ownership journey spans multiple generations within the same family. After Sidney and Dorothy Knudsen passed away, they left the artwork to their daughter, Arlene Alascio. Following her death, the painting was inherited by her brother-in-law, Sam Alascio, who decided to put the piece up for auction. Alex Cooper Auctioneers has chosen to keep the identity of the successful buyer confidential, respecting their privacy in the transaction.
The artwork itself embodies the quintessential Bob Ross aesthetic that made him famous worldwide. "Lake With Cabin & Trees" features a serene waterway flowing past a rustic wooden cabin, all nestled beneath a canopy of lush trees under Ross's signature cotton candy-colored sky. The painting showcases the natural landscape themes that Ross consistently explored throughout his career, combining his technical oil painting skills with his philosophy of finding peace and joy in nature.
Bob Ross gained international recognition through his PBS television series "The Joy of Painting," where he taught viewers how to create complete paintings in just 30 minutes per episode. However, his appeal extended far beyond his artistic instruction. Ross became beloved by audiences for his calm, gentle demeanor and his positive, encouraging approach to art education. His frequent use of phrases like "happy little trees" and his belief that there were "no mistakes, only happy accidents" made him a cultural icon who continues to inspire artists and non-artists alike decades after his death.
The successful auction of this piece reflects the enduring popularity and market value of Bob Ross's original works. While his television show featured him creating thousands of paintings over the years, original Ross paintings rarely come to market, making each auction appearance a significant event for collectors and art enthusiasts who appreciate both his artistic skill and cultural impact.
