Four original canvases by the late television painting instructor have been sold lately to raise funds for US public broadcasting following slashes by the Trump administration, and dozens more will be offered in 2026

The first three works could sell for as much as $145,000 in Los Angeles next month

Minneapolis gallery Modern Artifact called the price a “not-for-sale number”, adding that they intend to take the 1983 painting on tour

The film-maker behind Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed discusses what makes the artist an enduring icon who saw the beauty in life despite personal tragedy

Group show will help the 1980s TV painter move from kitsch king to conceptual pioneer