

We don’t make mistakes, we just have happy accidents.
The Joy of Painting was an American television show hosted by painter Bob Ross that taught its viewers techniques for landscape oil painting. Although Ross could complete a painting in half an hour, the intent of the show was not to teach viewers "speed painting". Rather, he intended for viewers to learn certain techniques within the time that the show was allotted. The show began on January 11, 1983, and lasted until May 17, 1994, a year before Ross' death.


Jan 2, 1985 - 27m
Bob Ross creates a tiny waterfall tucked beside a glassy lake, while surrounded by snowy majestic peaks and distant evergreens.

Jan 9, 1985 - 26m
Crisp blue sky and lake embrace soft rolling hills and leafy trees – Bob Ross paints the stillness of evening perfectly on black canvas.

Jan 16, 1985 - 26m
Guest Artist Dana Jester shares with us the beauty of sweet lavender clusters nestled in the heart of a snowy winter forest.

Jan 23, 1985 - 27m
Ice cold pond, snowy-covered banks, soft hues in the sky … Bob Ross teaches us to admire the simple beauty of nature.

Jan 30, 1985 - 26m
Take a journey with Bob Ross and discover the beauty of a shimmering pool gently cradled by a soft, beautiful and bright forest.

Feb 6, 1985 - 26m
Watch as the sun comes up into the golden sky and creates an illusion on the calm morning sea in this painting by guest artist Audrey Golden.

Feb 13, 1985 - 26m
In the evening light Bob Ross creates a fast flowing little waterfall happily running through the lush green meadow grass.

Feb 20, 1985 - 26m
In this brilliant southwestern scene Bob Ross portrays a unique view of nature with clear blue skies, dry mountains and graceful river.

Feb 27, 1985 - 27m
Guest Artist Joyce Ortner captures the true beauty of the ocean waves, blue and enchanting in this breathtaking seascape masterpiece.

Mar 6, 1985 - 26m
Bob Ross creates a proud strong windmill, standing in watch beside old farm buildings where happy little animals lay still in the night.

Mar 13, 1985 - 27m
In this landscape Bob Ross paints a far away mountain snuggled in with bright green trees and bushes mirrored in glistening waters.

Mar 20, 1985 - 27m
Guest artist Ferne Sirois shares her own Native American heritage in this adorable portrait of a playful, smiling little child.

Mar 27, 1985 - 26m
Bob Ross paints a beautiful summer scene today – rushing little riverlet flowing through the luscious greenery of a cabin landscape.