Series synopsis
The Joy of Painting is an American family documentary television series that premiered on PBS on January 11, 1983. It ended on May 17, 1994. It was created by Bob Ross. It stars Bob Ross, Dorothy Dent, Diane André and Audrey Golden.
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.
Premise
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.
Premise: We don’t make mistakes, we just have happy accidents.
Cast and characters
Leading cast
- Bob Ross as Self - Host
- Dorothy Dent as Herself
- Diane André as Herself
- Audrey Golden as Herself
- Joyce Ortner as Herself
- Ferne Sirois as Herself
- Ben Stahl as Himself
- John Thamm as Himself
Supporting cast
- Dana Jester as Himself
- Annette Kowalski as Herself
- Steve Ross as Himself
Guest cast
- Dorothy Dent as Herself
- Diane André as Herself
- Audrey Golden as Herself
- Joyce Ortner as Herself
- Ferne Sirois as Herself
- Ben Stahl as Himself
- John Thamm as Himself
- Dana Jester as Himself
- Annette Kowalski as Herself
- Steve Ross as Himself
Episodes
This series spans 20 seasons with 262 episodes.
| Season | Episodes | First aired | Last aired |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 0 | 15 | June 13, 2020 | |
| Season 1 | 13 | January 11, 1983 | March 29, 1983 |
| Season 2 | 13 | August 31, 1983 | November 23, 1983 |
| Season 3 | 13 | January 4, 1984 | March 28, 1984 |
| Season 4 | 13 | September 5, 1984 | November 28, 1984 |
| Season 5 | 13 | January 2, 1985 | March 27, 1985 |
| Season 6 | 13 | May 1, 1985 | July 23, 1985 |
| Season 7 | 13 | October 2, 1985 | December 25, 1985 |
| Season 8 | 13 | January 2, 1986 | March 27, 1986 |
| Season 9 | 13 | April 30, 1986 | July 23, 1986 |
| Season 10 | 13 | September 3, 1986 | November 26, 1986 |
| Season 11 | 13 | December 30, 1986 | March 25, 1987 |
| Season 12 | 13 | April 29, 1987 | July 22, 1987 |
| Season 13 | 13 | September 2, 1987 | November 25, 1987 |
| Season 14 | 13 | December 30, 1987 | March 23, 1988 |
| Season 15 | 13 | April 27, 1988 | July 20, 1988 |
| Season 16 | 13 | July 17, 1988 | October 9, 1988 |
| Season 17 | 13 | January 4, 1989 | March 29, 1989 |
| Season 18 | 13 | July 5, 1989 | September 27, 1989 |
| Season 19 | 13 | January 3, 1990 | March 28, 1990 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Getting Started with Bob Ross | |
| 2 | Wildlife Painting Techniques | |
| 3 | 3-Hour Workshop |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
A Walk in the Woods Bob Ross introduces us to his "Almighty" assortment of tools and colors, tells us that anyone can paint, and creates a landscape of a forest path just after a rain shower. |
January 11, 1983 |
| 2 |
Mt. McKinley This episode remains unaired and was provided only to various TV stations to determine their interest in the show. |
January 11, 1983 |
| 3 | Ebony Sunset | January 18, 1983 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Meadow Lake Glide into this scenic world of green trees and bushes reflecting into calm waters. Bob Ross paints both gentle beauty and almighty power. |
August 31, 1983 |
| 2 |
Winter Sun Find the glistening sun peeking through the trees in this wintery scene; Bob Ross creates a cold day warmed by daystar radiance. |
September 7, 1983 |
| 3 |
Ebony Sea As the night settles over a rocky coast, Bob Ross gives you a warm glow still in the sky – a painting achieved on black canvas. |
September 14, 1983 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Mountain Retreat Bob Ross paints a beautiful summer getaway with rugged brown peaks, clear blue waters and a cozy little cabin too. |
January 4, 1984 |
| 2 |
Blue Moon Breathtaking skies, bending palms and waves that accentuate the cool night breeze. A one-of-a-kind masterpiece by Bob Ross. |
January 11, 1984 |
| 3 |
Bubbling Stream In the midst of the forest flows a stream that splashes and trickles endlessly along – Bob Ross depicts the true beauty of nature. |
January 18, 1984 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Purple Splendor Bob Ross will fascinate you with this crimson winter scene, where cabin and snow are virtually undisturbed and the evergreens are full. |
September 5, 1984 |
| 2 |
Tranquil Valley Envision yourself in a world of purple mountain tops and glistening waters that reflect the glowing sky; a magical Bob Ross scene! |
September 12, 1984 |
| 3 |
Majestic Mountains On a clear day Bob Ross creates an almighty mountain captured by a clear blue sky – another spectacular masterpiece on canvas. |
September 19, 1984 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Mountain Waterfall Bob Ross creates a tiny waterfall tucked beside a glassy lake, while surrounded by snowy majestic peaks and distant evergreens. |
January 2, 1985 |
| 2 |
Twilight Meadow Crisp blue sky and lake embrace soft rolling hills and leafy trees – Bob Ross paints the stillness of evening perfectly on black canvas. |
January 9, 1985 |
| 3 |
Mountain Blossoms Guest Artist Dana Jester shares with us the beauty of sweet lavender clusters nestled in the heart of a snowy winter forest. |
January 16, 1985 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Blue River Luscious green grass and fresh evergreens, purple and pink sky -- giving the water a perfect glow in this Bob Ross black canvas masterpiece. |
May 1, 1985 |
| 2 |
Nature's Edge Imagine yourself nestled in a Bob Ross cabin, hidden in the midst of the plush green forest surrounded by the sounds of nature. |
May 8, 1985 |
| 3 |
Morning Mist Fresh morning lake and succulent evergreens -- watch Bob Ross create a peaceful, dewy brown mountain scene. |
May 15, 1985 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Winter Cabin In the midst of a cold, wintry forest, Bob Ross gently places a magical little wooden shanty upon a bed of soft snow. |
October 2, 1985 |
| 2 |
Secluded Lake With brush in hand, Bob Ross leads you on a summertime nature walk, as you uncover the beauty of leafy trees and pond. |
October 9, 1985 |
| 3 |
Evergreens at Sunset Using a different technique or two, Bob Ross creates a fascinating scene – watch the sun drop below the horizon, just behind the shadow of trees. |
October 16, 1985 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Misty Rolling Hills Bob Ross creates soft purple sky and tall trees that almost seem to float in the hazy foothills of a distant, blue-grey mountain. |
January 2, 1986 |
| 2 |
Lakeside Cabin A cabin has found a peaceful resting place amongst a warm setting of lush, lakeside greenery in this wonderful oval creation by Bob Ross. |
January 9, 1986 |
| 3 |
Warm Winter Day The field of snow and the little cabin yield to the bright, orange sun -- Bob Ross conveys harmony in this cold, but cozy scene. |
January 16, 1986 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Winter Evergreens Join Bob Ross as he creates a beautiful snowy landscape with stately evergreens, warmed by winter sun hanging low over distant mountains. |
April 30, 1986 |
| 2 |
Surf's Up Feel the salt spray as Bob Ross paints ocean waves under abundant clouds, rolling in to spend their energy against sand and rock. |
May 7, 1986 |
| 3 |
Red Sunset Warm light in sky and clouds makes this a glowing, fiery landscape -- Bob Ross teaches the use of his technique on black canvas. |
May 14, 1986 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Towering Peaks A real Bob Ross classic – the majestic snow covered mountain, rolling foothills, leafy trees and bushes and serene lake. |
September 3, 1986 |
| 2 |
Cabin at Sunset Just a few quick, color-filled strokes and a little shanty with crisp evergreens and bright meadow appear – paint with Bob Ross! |
September 10, 1986 |
| 3 |
Twin Falls A mellow background gives way to chunky rock formations, trickling waterways and happy trees in this Bob Ross landscape. |
September 17, 1986 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Mountain Stream A cool blue waterway winds effortlessly from the far away high peaks and evergreens; enjoy today’s Bob Ross landscape. |
December 30, 1986 |
| 2 |
Country Cabin Bob Ross paints an old weathered dwelling today, burrowed deep in the snow and lined with protective evergreens. |
January 7, 1987 |
| 3 |
Daisy Delight Bob Ross paints a majestic stand of evergreen trees overlooking tiny, sweet little flowers growing on a sloping knoll. |
January 14, 1987 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Golden Knoll Bob Ross paints a beautiful monochromatic scene with delicate leafless trees and rich grassy meadow cuddling a sweet cottage. |
April 29, 1987 |
| 2 |
Mountain Reflections With his trusty brushes, Bob Ross takes us to a beautiful lake hideaway nestled below a towering mountain. |
May 6, 1987 |
| 3 |
Secluded Mountain Spend a relaxing half-hour with Bob Ross as he paints a mountain scene with soft, sloping grass cover, crystal lake and rocky banks. |
May 13, 1987 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Rolling Hills Bob Ross’ brushes captivate the graceful and uncommon qualities of distant sloping hills and a peaceful nearby lake. |
September 2, 1987 |
| 2 |
Frozen Solitude A snowy mountain range, an ice-covered lake, and a lost little cabin combine to create a wintry testimony to Bob Ross’ artistic magic. |
September 9, 1987 |
| 3 |
Meadow Brook Bob Ross creates an innocent creek that slices its way across a landscape of color in a setting dreams are made of. |
September 16, 1987 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Distant Mountains Bob Ross will enchant you as he captures, on the canvas, a bright and cheery mountain scene right out of your dreams. |
December 30, 1987 |
| 2 |
Meadow Brook Surprise A timid little brook winds its way through a golden grassland created by Bob Ross’ precise, but easy-to-learn technique. |
January 6, 1988 |
| 3 |
Mountain Moonlight Oval The mysterious night sky is pierced by amazing lunar rays which Bob Ross uses to illuminate a mighty mountain. |
January 13, 1988 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Splendor of Winter The stillness of a winter’s day, with happy sun shining bright in the sky, can be beautifully captured on canvas, and Bob Ross shows you how. |
April 27, 1988 |
| 2 |
Colors of Nature Bob Ross uses a little imagination and lots of color to create this soft, luxurious early autumn lake scene. |
May 4, 1988 |
| 3 |
Grandpa's Barn Old-time memories are conjured up by the sight of this lonesome big barn that Bob Ross places on the edge of a forest. |
May 11, 1988 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Two Seasons Take a little walk with Bob Ross as he shows you how to create the same mountain landscape setting in both summer and winter! |
July 17, 1988 |
| 2 |
Nestled Cabin Out of nowhere appears an unexpected find -- a weathered cottage in the deep forest that Bob Ross places there, in an already perfect setting. |
July 24, 1988 |
| 3 |
Wintertime Discovery Imagine stumbling upon this little surprise cabin and shed, nestled in the snow drifts! Bob Ross shows you how easy it is to paint. |
July 31, 1988 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Golden Mist Oval Bob Ross creates an oval scene with warm brown and gold tones that captures the essence of a lonely forest river. |
January 4, 1989 |
| 2 |
The Old Home Place Travel with Bob Ross along the country back roads as he paints a quiet little home on a meadow with a beautiful, serene sky. |
January 11, 1989 |
| 3 |
Soothing Vista Surround yourself with this gorgeous Bob Ross painting; there’s plenty of thick, velvety green grass, trees and foliage to just lose yourself in! |
January 18, 1989 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Half-Oval Vignette Bob Ross illustrates the illusion of infinity as mountain and water fade into the distance, created in a lovely half-oval painting. |
July 5, 1989 |
| 2 |
Absolutely Autumn Rich, soft colors prove that fall has arrived! Join Bob Ross as he paints a quiet pond and surrounding foliage preparing themselves for a season of slumber. |
July 12, 1989 |
| 3 |
Mountain Seclusion Travel to a lonely hidden cabin in the frozen mountainous north country with Bob Ross -- another black canvas masterpiece to fall in love with. |
July 19, 1989 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Snowfall Magic Experience the mystique of snowflakes gently tumbling in the silence of the forest. Join Bob Ross for this lovely winter masterpiece! |
January 3, 1990 |
| 2 |
Quiet Mountain Lake Relax with Bob Ross as the perfect picnic spot emerges from his paint filled brushes – quiet peaks on a tranquil lake and luscious green velvety grass. |
January 10, 1990 |
| 3 |
Final Embers of Sunlight Travel with Bob Ross into an evening display of glowing, magnificent setting sun. Another unique oval painting you’ll have to see. |
January 17, 1990 |
Production
Release
| Original network/platform | PBS |
|---|---|
| First aired | January 11, 1983 |
| Last aired | May 17, 1994 |
| Runtime | 30 minutes |
| Status | ended |
| Schedule | Wednesday |