Dozens of original Bob Ross paintings — many created live on his PBS show The Joy of Painting — are headed to auction to raise money for public television.

Ross, known for his calm voice, signature afro and “happy little trees,” inspired millions to pick up a brush through more than 400 episodes that aired from 1983 to 1994. His work still appears on PBS and streaming platforms, and instructors continue teaching his wet-on-wet painting technique today.

Now, American Public Television is auctioning 30 of his paintings through Bonhams to help PBS stations facing major federal funding cuts. Bonhams calls it the largest-ever sale of Ross originals, with proceeds supporting local public broadcasters.

The first three paintings — including Winter’s Peace and Home in the Valley , both cre

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