UPDATE: Bob Ross Inc. is launching an urgent auction of the beloved painter’s works to help save public media, which faces a dire funding crisis. The first three of 30 paintings will be up for bids in Los Angeles on October 3, 2023, with projections to raise about $1 million for the struggling Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB).
Public radio and television stations across the nation are reeling after Congress unexpectedly clawed back funds already approved for the CPB, leading to its closure on September 30. This move threatens vital programming, especially in rural areas and among Indigenous communities, where public media serves as a critical source of information and community identity.
In a statement, Wendy Schmidt, co-founder of the Schmidt Family Foundation, emphasized the importance of public media: “It’s up to all of us to save public media as an essential, free news service.” The loss of public broadcasting hits hardest in regions where access to reliable information is already limited, and where public stations act as lifelines during emergencies.
Historically, public media stations have depended on federal funding for only 10% to 15% of their budgets. For less than $2 a year per household, they provide free educational programming, local journalism, and emergency alerts, reaching over 95% of Americans while using less than 0.01% of the federal budget.
The auction of Bob Ross’ paintings represents a significant effort to address the funding shortfall. The late painter’s legacy continues to resonate with fans, and his work is expected to attract considerable attention and financial support for public broadcasting. “We’re asking other foundations, philanthropic-minded families and individuals to join us,” Schmidt stated.
As public media grapples with this funding crisis, the community is rallying. Public radio stations have initiated renewed donation drives and collaborative initiatives to strengthen local journalism. The auction is part of a broader response to the federal funding collapse, aiming to maintain the essential services these stations provide.
Schmidt’s foundation has been a pioneer in supporting public media, including funding NPR’s Collaborative Journalism Network, which enhances coverage and resources for smaller stations. “Public media has responded robustly to the collapse of federal funding,” she noted, highlighting efforts to expand coverage across underserved regions.
Public media’s role in fostering community engagement and reducing polarization cannot be overstated. With an ever-changing media landscape, the need for independent and locally responsive stations remains critical. As the auction date approaches, supporters are urged to contribute to this vital cause.
The challenge of preserving public media is daunting, but the collective action of viewers, listeners, and donors can help ensure that this invaluable resource continues to thrive. The auction of Bob Ross’ paintings could be a turning point in the fight to save public broadcasting, and every bid counts.
As the situation develops, the call for support grows louder. Join the movement to keep public media alive—because it matters now more than ever.
