Bob Ross

American painter, art instructor, television host, and Air Force master sergeant (1942-1995)

Robert Norman "Bob" Ross (October 29, 1942 – July 4, 1995) was an American painter, art instructor and television host. Ross is probably best known for hosting and creating the television show, The Joy of Painting. He was also in a kids' show called The Adventures of Elmer and Friends, although he died before he could create any more than one episode.

Bob Ross
Born
Robert Norman Ross

(1942-10-29)October 29, 1942
DiedJuly 4, 1995(1995-07-04) (aged 52)
Resting placeWoodlawn Memorial Park, Gotha, Florida, U.S.
Occupation(s)Painter, art instructor, television host
Years active1983–1994
Spouse(s)Lynda Brown (?–1981; divorced)
Jane Ross (1980s–1993; her death)
Children3
Allegiance United States of America
Service/branch United States Air Force
Years of service1961–1981
Rank Master Sergeant
Websitebobross.com

Ross was born in Daytona Beach, Florida, and was raised in Orlando, Florida. At the age of 18, Ross enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. Snow and mountains became a recurring theme in his artwork when the Air Force transferred him to Eielson AFB (in Alaska) and he first saw them. He developed his quick-painting technique in order to be able to create art for sale in short daily work breaks. He discovered that he was able to earn more from selling his work than from his Air Force position and later left the Air Force. After that, he began studying with Bill Alexander before Ross became famous worldwide with his television program, The Joy of Painting.