Artist: Chloe Newman

Title: Bob Ross Experience

Location: McGalliard and Broadway

Project Statement:

I rediscovered Bob Ross' work in 2020 while many of us were physically distancing ourselves and staying home. It was a happy accident that I lived in an area ill-suited for wifi because I ordered a tv antenna and discovered "The Joy of Painting" on PBS. I found comfort in the simplicity of the show. Watching Bob float through each masterpiece with a carefree and positive attitude renewed my passion for painting. I stopped scrutinizing my work and felt liberated from the need to have a plan each time I put paint on canvas. Bob gained a special place in my home, so I was thrilled to start working at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens in October 2021. Many people don't know that seasons 2 through 15 of "The Joy of Painting" were filmed in the L.L. Ball Home, which was the WIPB studio at the time. Now, the home is an immersive exhibit called the Bob Ross Experience. Exploring the restored television studio and observing the original paintings is incredible. I felt so inspired while standing in front of his iconic easel, and I want to share that with everyone. I thought this box, located within two miles of Minnetrista, would be the perfect opportunity to do so! I hope it will encourage people to get curious about Bob Ross' legacy within our community and visit the Bob Ross Experience at Minnetrista.

Artist Bio:

I'm a Muncie native working as the Digital Communications Coordinator at Minnetrista Museum & Gardens and an artist at night. I like to be creative with every medium, but I predominately paint using oils and gouache.