Bob Ross's Historic Painting Auction in Germany to Support U.S. Public Television

Bob Ross's Historic Painting Auction in Germany

In a significant development for art and television lovers alike, an original Bob Ross painting titled Mountain Splendor is set to be auctioned in Germany on December 5, 2026. This marks the first time a Bob Ross painting will be auctioned in the country, as part of a broader initiative to support public television across the United States. The esteemed auction house Ketterer Kunst will host this event, further solidifying Bob Ross’s international legacy and impact.

The auction is a continuation of a unique series designed to benefit American Public Television (APT), which first launched in November 2025, following a critical funding cut to public television stations in the U.S. To date, thirty original Bob Ross paintings have been donated by Bob Ross Inc. These paintings are being auctioned off over the years, and so far, fourteen of them have successfully raised over $2.4 million in net proceeds.

Mountain Splendor, created in 1986, showcases the unparalleled beauty and tranquility familiar to Bob Ross fans. What's particularly notable about this painting is that it was painted live on his iconic series, The Joy of Painting. This specific episode remains available for viewers, who can experience the transformation of a blank canvas into a breathtaking landscape in just under thirty minutes. This kind of accessibility is part of the magic Bob Ross brought to his audience, allowing them to experience the joy of creation firsthand.

Kowalski Joan, president of Bob Ross Inc., expressed her delight in seeing the auction expand into Germany. “Bob wanted to share art with everyone,” she noted, emphasizing the profound connection between his work and public television, which played a pivotal role in his journey. Indeed, The Joy of Painting has been captivating audiences in Germany since first airing in 2001. In recent years, efforts to grow Bob Ross’s presence have included the launch of The Bob Ross Channel on Samsung TV Plus and partnerships with over a hundred Certified Ross Instructors (CRI) throughout the country.

The auction promises not only to attract collectors but also to raise awareness about the importance of public broadcasting. With a starting estimate of €40,000 to €60,000, Mountain Splendor represents not just a beautiful piece of art, but also a chance for collectors to own a piece of television history that has remained untouched for decades. Due to its pristine condition, having never been exposed to environmental stress, the painting retains its vibrant colors and surface integrity, which are hallmarks of Bob Ross’s technique.

The auction will take place during Ketterer Kunst's Modern Contemporary Art Day Sale in Munich, a highly anticipated event in the art world that features works from prominent international artists including Peter Doig and Alexander Calder. Bob Ross's inclusion in this auction is bound to bring an added layer of excitement, reflecting his enduring popularity and cultural significance.

Ketterer Kunst’s Robert Ketterer remarked on the auction, stating, “Bob Ross adds a different kind of star power. He is a beloved cultural icon with a devoted following in Germany.” Owning a Bob Ross painting like Mountain Splendor offers an exceptional opportunity for collectors to engage with the rich history of art and television that Bob Ross has left behind.

As the auction approaches, collectors and enthusiasts await the chance to bid on this extraordinary piece. With preview events scheduled throughout Germany in cities such as Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg, Berlin, and Munich, interest is expected to be high. Bidders will have the opportunity to appreciate the painting firsthand before making their bids.

Through this auction, Bob Ross's legacy not only continues to touch hearts but also facilitates the vital support of public television stations that inspire, educate, and entertain millions. As the date draws near, the world watches, excited to participate in this unique blend of art and philanthropy.