2018 has been a tough year. But, and excuse the cliche, every cloud has a silver lining, and this year people learned to really appreciate the good, pure things (and people) in this world. Whether it was the Mr. Rogers documentary, all the women who won in the midterm elections, or the feel-good perfection that was To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, there were plenty of ways to take shelter from the shitstorm of this year. Another one of those good, pure things? Everything Bob Ross.
Any child of the 80’s and 90’s remembers the smiling, afro’d painter who turned happy little accidents into birds and whipped out landscape perfection in 30 minutes flat. He had a joy and an infectiously positive demeanor that drew people to him. His belief was that painting should make you happy; perfection wasn’t the goal, the freedom of self expression on the canvas was. He passed away in 1995, and his enduring legacy as a skilled painter is dwarfed only by his legacy as beacon of serenity. Even Sally Thorne, author of our fav The Hating Game, thinks so.
Hearing Bob Ross talk is the closest you’ll ever get to being back in the womb & listening to people talking on the outside
It’s like, words, but more like a sound you want to move towards
— Sally Thorne (@Sally__Thorne) December 11, 2018
I should note that I am unwell today and have snugged myself on the couch and Bob has been healing me
— Sally Thorne (@Sally__Thorne) December 11, 2018
See? Bob heals. And there’s a lot of Bob Ross merch floating around, so if you know anyone who’s a devotee or just someone who could use some sweet, Bob Ross healing therapy, here’s a few ideas. Most of these are available with Amazon Prime shipping or in stores so they arrive before Christmas.
Step by Step Painting Guide
Let’s be real, only Bob can make these happen in 30 minutes. Your friend or loved one can paint at their own pace with this beautiful step by step guide. It lists all the supplies and Signature Bob Ross oil colors needed for the 16 different pictures, as well as inspiring Bob Ross painting quotes that are the verbal equivalent of hugs and high fives.
There’s enough unhappy things in the world. Painting should be one of those things that brightens your day.
Bob Ross Coloring Book
Painting is hard. Coloring is therapeutic. Science says so. So buy that stressed out friend or family member the Bob Ross Coloring Book and a pack of colored pencils and watch the healing begin. Available at Target.
Day by Day Calendar
Who wouldn’t want to start each day with a soothing mountainscape and an uplifting Bob quote? I was going to say Satan, but honestly? He’s probably secretly a fan as well. You can get it at Barnes and Noble.
Lunch Pail
A friend of mine just bought these for her three year old twins, who are obsessed with watching Bob Ross’s The Joy of Painting on PBS. But this isn’t just for kids; any Bob-loving adult could take this to work with ZERO shame. As an added bonus, it turns those three cupcakes you had for lunch into “happy little accidents”.
Self Painting Mug
Pour in hot tea or coffee and watch a classic Bob masterpiece magically appear. Guaranteed crowdpleaser for that White Elephant party you don’t really want to go to.
