Turkish artists find inspiration in Bob Ross to pursue painting

In Turkey, two individuals have found artistic success after being inspired by the late painter Bob Ross.

Mahmut Elmalı, a portrait artist based in Kayseri, began painting as a child while watching Bob Ross on television. After years of practice, including burning pencils to create charcoal, Elmalı pursued academic training at Anadolu University’s Faculty of Fine Arts. He graduated in 2006 and has since worked as a professional portrait painter in hotels and at various fairs, specializing in both oil paintings and live portraiture.

In Zonguldak, 81-year-old Şahinde Ermiş also discovered painting through Bob Ross’s programs. Having no formal training, she taught herself by observing techniques on screen. After raising four children alone following the loss of her husband, Ermiş turned to art as a passion. She has produced approximately 44 to 80 paintings, primarily focusing on landscapes and historical village houses. Having held her first exhibition in 2006, she is currently preparing for her second exhibition.