Today’s Google Doodle celebrates what would have been Bob Ross’s 70th birthday. Even though he’s no longer with us, he taught us that anyone can paint. All we have to do is believe in ourselves.
Ross started painting while serving with the Air Force. Where the snow-covered mountains inspired him. This new-found talent allowed him to make a living, culminating in the long running (1983-1994) PBS show, The Joy of Painting.
An interesting fact about the show is that Mr. Ross actually did it for free. The money he made actually came from Bob Ross Incorporated. You may have seen their distinctive packaging in your local art supply store.
Not only was Bob Ross influential with his paintings, but for me personally, his outlook on life is something to be admired. You see, when Ross was in the service, he had to bark a lot of orders and was generally “mean”. It’s to his credit that after his time in the force, he decided to never be like that again, and lived a happy and peaceful life. So, cheers to Google for honoring Mr. Ross with a doodle, and to end things, here’s a great video with the man himself.