I haven’t written a blog post in a long time! Writing a novel, editing the crap out of it, and publishing it is exhausting. And truth be told? I don’t know when/if I’ll be doing it again. I decided this summer I’m going to do what I love for the sheer joy of it, not to try to sell things. I’m going to write and read…and yes, even PAINT. And I’m not an artist that way, not at all. The few classes I’ve taken at the MFA have gone virtual for now, and I’m not doing that. But I discovered someone old to many but very new to me. Mr. Bob Ross. Now I know. I KNOW, “real” artists say he’s no good. No depth in his paintings. No real meaning or artistic value, except maybe in his sky or clouds. But you know what? I’m throwing my middle finger up at those people. The same things are often said about certain styles of poetry or erotic writing. There are all levels of all things, and Bob Ross did something magical. He painted for the sheer joy of it. He shared simple techniques and color combinations and brush strokes for the everyday man who never in his wildest dreams thought of painting. Just watching and listening to him is a meditation. I can feel my heartbeat slow, my breathing deepen, and watch the world disappear into this 30-minute blissful surrender. Writing these blogs make me feel the same way. It’s a mental therapy of sorts. Whether anyone reads them or not makes little difference to me. His style, though poo-poo’d generally speaking, puts one right into the landscape, takes the watcher along his journey into the mountains or oceans or trails or high into the sky or trees or deep into the brooks. And it’s no wonder his voice has become synonymous with the phenomenon known as ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response).( You can learn more ASMR by clicking this link if you’re unfamiliar.) I find myself lost in his voice as he makes “happy” trees and tells us it’s our paintings and to do whatever we want with them… The saddest part, for me was learning how young Bob Ross died, and further, that he didn’t make one damn dime off his paintings. Now? They go for 8,000 to 10,000 US dollars at auction houses. Not too bad for such a shitty painter, huh? Of course the art elite will say it’s because of his celebrity not his talent. I say? Thank you, Bob Ross. You’ve inspired me to try your technique. You’ve inspired me to buy some supplies, sit out in the sun this summer, and just…paint. Not for accolades. Not for money. Not to impress people with statements. But for pure joy.
When I write—my poetry in particular—if I inspire one person to try free-verse poetry, which I’ve been told I have successfully done--then that is enough for me. I don’t need to sell it. There is something to be said for doing the things we love just because…they bring us some semblance of joy, or release, or surrender in the magic of the imagination. Do what makes your soul buoyant. Whether pen or paintbrush, tune out the static chatter of naysayers, and remember: “We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents.” ~Bob Ross
6 Comments
5/14/2020 14:20:11
There is nothing better than doing something for the sheer joy of it. Have a wonderful summer, painting, writing, and enjoying your freedom.
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MK
5/15/2020 10:34:11
Don't stop writing. I have enjoying reading every book of yours but I understand how hard it must be.
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Susan
5/15/2020 10:58:15
I remember a long time ago you had a poll about publishing these. Are you still thinking about that? Maybe that could be a summer project for you? I fancy it wouldn't be so much work for you? (yes I have been a follower for a long time lol)
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Martha
5/15/2020 11:48:59
Wow, you and I are on the same wavelength right now. Earlier this week I was trying to explain Bob Ross to my almost 10 year old who was watching some gamer on YouTube that I think sounds like a cross between Barney the purple dinosaur's voice with Bob Ross's chill
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Jenny K
5/15/2020 22:39:07
I’m shocked to learn here that Bob Ross is poppies on. I love Bob Toss!!! Especially his voice & upbeat attitude! I’m with yo, 💜 Bob!!!
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Evelyn Hudson
5/18/2020 05:13:33
I couldn’t agree more! I absolutely LOVE watching Bob Ross work, because it seems to be so effortless for him! I love how soft spoken he is and how kind he is to share his thoughts and tips on how to enjoy painting.
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I LOVE to write and read. I particularly enjoy reading erotic romance that has tons of emotion in it. I hope you will ask me questions and share your favorite authors and novels. I welcome all feedback.
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