By: Chris Wakefield
When a young Chris Taylor took an art class with his grandmother, he had no idea it would lead him down a path that would lead to becoming friends with one of the most popular contemporary artists in the world.
Shortly after finishing his landscape painting in class, an instructor informed Taylor that famous PBS host Bob Ross, who filmed his television show, The Joy of Painting, in nearby Muncie, Indiana, might want to see the artwork in person. Before he knew it, Taylor was standing in the WIPB studios in Muncie, face to face with the already legendary artist. “It was just kind of magical, in a way.”
Ross believed Taylor had talent, and he soon took him under his wing as both a friend and a mentor. Taylor attended numerous television tapings, and he says Ross was just as kind and gentle in person as he was on his PBS show. Taylor says that time with Ross sparked his deep love of painting.
But after Ross suddenly passed away in 1995, Taylor says he turned his attention to working in television and sports production at Ball State University. “I lost my friend and mentor.” It wasn’t until 2018 when Taylor received a call from a group called Minnetrista, who wanted his input on a Bob Ross Experience they were planning to exhibit in Muncie.
Shortly after, Taylor picked up his brush and canvas again and quickly became a certified Bob Ross instructor. Today, with his own studio and gallery, Taylor teaches scores of aspiring painters to paint like Bob Ross. From happy little trees to picturesque mountains, Taylor is keeping his friend’s legacy alive through the joy of painting.
Chris Taylor Certified Bob Ross Instructor & Artist 