When I first discovered Bob Ross, I was immediately captivated – not just by his gentle voice and soothing presence, but by the way he made art feel accessible to everyone. He painted with oil, I work with pastels, but the essence of what he did – the message he shared – transcended medium. He showed that creativity wasn’t just for the elite. It was for everyone. And that truth lit a spark in me.
Over the past six years, I’ve worked exclusively with pastels. I’ve studied Bob’s techniques, even though our materials are different, and adapted his use of layering, light, and movement into my own pastel work. Where he might sweep a brush to suggest clouds, I use my fingers, smudging soft chalk to sculpt skies and landscapes. His love of nature, his trust in instinct, and his belief in “happy little accidents” has stayed with me in every piece I create.
Beyond technique, Bob Ross inspired me with his philosophy. His approach to art as a form of healing, joy, and community resonates deeply. I live with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and art has been both refuge and medicine. When I create, I am free from the constraints of my body. I can travel, imagine, and breathe. And like Bob, I want to share that experience with others.
One day, I would love to be a kind of “Mrs. Bob Ross” – not in imitation, but in spirit. I dream of offering workshops across the world, using art as a tool for health and healing. I want to help people find peace and pride in their creativity, no matter their skill level, mobility, or background. I believe that art has the power to nourish the soul and support wellbeing in powerful ways.
But to bring this vision to life, the art world and the broader creative industries need to invest in accessibility. More funding for disabled artists. More inclusive platforms. More visibility for alternative mediums like pastels. If we want art to be truly universal, then we need to build systems that make that possible. I’m ready to do my part. I just need the space to grow.
So here’s to Bob Ross, the painter who made millions feel seen and capable. And here’s to a future where more of us can carry that torch – softly, brightly, and together.
Useful Links and Inspiration:
3 comments
Ann Kretzschmar
Bob Ross may have inspired you Emma but it was you that inspired me. Since our chance exchange on Facebook back in 2020, art has given me so much which wouldn’t have happened without you..
traceyham4
I agree, Bob Ross was my inspiration for landscapes but Emma is the person who introduced me to pastels during lockdown and I’ve never looked back. They’re my favourite medium.
Patricia Hammerstein
Bob Ross inspired me to start my art journey as well. His gentle voice helps me to relax and start the process of creating so I can understand what Emma is saying.