Painting can be a form of relaxation, whether you are an expert or a beginner. The process of painting requires some concentration, yet has the ability to let one’s inner artist project onto the canvas in front of them. The late artist Bob Ross explains this method well, as he has made multiple videos on how to paint beautiful art pieces while having fun. UC Live invited others to join the journey on how to create their very own art piece with the help of Ross.
The night of Feb. 25 was filled with tarps on tables, small canvases scattered amongst themselves and two complementary paintbrushes and paint. There were two sessions held at 7 and 8 p.m., where students had to reserve their spots as there were limited supplies and seats for this experience.
The room in the Down Under was filled with friends, couples and strangers who all joined together to paint. Strangers had the opportunity to bond with one another and form friendships through this experience, as it is a break from the everyday academic world.
“The Bob Ross Night is a fun experience that can help students gain individualism through art as Bob Ross gives his directions,” UC Live worker Chloe Putz said. “It’s a way to learn how to create art that feels just as important as the pros, as the expression is instantly shown.”
While Ross did provide instructions, his videos are fast-paced, causing many students to show both amazement and frustration as the legend created trees before the students could finish their scenic backgrounds.
“I had a great time at the Bob Ross Paint Night,” UW-Whitewater senior Cora Schutte said. “My friends and I had fun trying to follow Bob Ross’s step-by-step video. It was great seeing everyone’s own interpretations with varying styles and colors.”
Many students who have painting backgrounds were easily able to keep pace with Ross, while those who do not have the background followed along. But every piece created on the canvas was a reflection of the artist who painted the scenery, no matter how accurate it is to Ross.
The session concluded as the video ended. Many students stayed to put their finishing touches on their art pieces, some adding clouds or ducks to their canvas. The night brought students together as they bonded over the struggles of following an iconic figure in art through his rapid steps and showed off their own unique pieces to one another, complimenting those who did their best.
The event goes to show that anyone can be an artist; it just takes a push to get out of your comfort zone, whether you go alone, drag a friend or create a date night with your partner. It is a great memory to have as the canvas is brought home with you to show off to friends and family, and to explain how you made “happy accidents,” as Ross would put it.
