Question
Bob Ross, an artist known for his calming presence and signature "happy little trees," became a household name through his groundbreaking television program, The Joy of Painting. Born on October 29, 1942, in Daytona Beach, Florida, Ross grew up in Orlando, the home of Disney World, developing an early love for nature—an inspiration that would define his art. Ross enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at 18, serving as a medical record’s technician. His time serving in Alaska exposed him to breathtaking landscapes that fueled his artistic vision. He began painting as a hobby and later mastered the wet-on-wet oil painting technique, or alla prima, which enabled him to create complete works quickly. This style became the foundation of his art and teaching.
After retiring from the military, Ross studied under German painter Bill Alexander, the innovator of the wet-on-wet technique he admired. In 1983, Ross launched The Joy of Painting, a PBS television series that aired for 11 years and reached millions of viewers worldwide. Each 30-minute episode featured Ross painting serene landscapes while explaining his techniques in a gentle, encouraging tone. His iconic phrases, such as “there are no mistakes, just happy accidents,” resonated deeply with his audience, many of whom were beginners.
The program was unique for its accessibility and inclusivity. Ross aimed to demystify art, emphasizing that anyone could paint regardless of their skill level. His husky voice and solemn demeanor created a comforting atmosphere, making the show as much about relaxation as he was about art. The Joy of Painting became a cultural phenomenon, attracting a diverse audience that included aspiring artists, stressed professionals - and even children.
[A]Though Ross's landscapes—often featuring mountains, rivers, and forests— and televised lessons were dismissed by some in the fine art world, his influence as a teacher and motivator was unparalleled. [B] Beyond his love of teaching, Ross was also a philanthropist, donating paintings to PBS stations and other charities. [C] Following his death from lymphoma in 1995, Ross’s legacy has only grown, with reruns of The Joy of Painting and an ever-expanding and growing fanbase of followers. [D]
The writer is considering deleting the highlighted text.
Should the highlighted text be kept or deleted?
Elimination Tool
Select one answer
A
Kept, because it compares Disney World to the natural landscapes of Florida.
B
Kept, because it places Ross at a particular iconic location during his childhood.
C
Deleted, because it detracts from the Ross' experiences in the other locations.
D
Deleted, because it adds a detail that is irrelevant to the discussion of Ross' early life.
After retiring from the military, Ross studied under German painter Bill Alexander, the innovator of the wet-on-wet technique he admired. In 1983, Ross launched The Joy of Painting, a PBS television series that aired for 11 years and reached millions of viewers worldwide. Each 30-minute episode featured Ross painting serene landscapes while explaining his techniques in a gentle, encouraging tone. His iconic phrases, such as “there are no mistakes, just happy accidents,” resonated deeply with his audience, many of whom were beginners.
The program was unique for its accessibility and inclusivity. Ross aimed to demystify art, emphasizing that anyone could paint regardless of their skill level. His husky voice and solemn demeanor created a comforting atmosphere, making the show as much about relaxation as he was about art. The Joy of Painting became a cultural phenomenon, attracting a diverse audience that included aspiring artists, stressed professionals - and even children.
[A]Though Ross's landscapes—often featuring mountains, rivers, and forests— and televised lessons were dismissed by some in the fine art world, his influence as a teacher and motivator was unparalleled. [B] Beyond his love of teaching, Ross was also a philanthropist, donating paintings to PBS stations and other charities. [C] Following his death from lymphoma in 1995, Ross’s legacy has only grown, with reruns of The Joy of Painting and an ever-expanding and growing fanbase of followers. [D]
The writer is considering deleting the highlighted text.
Should the highlighted text be kept or deleted?
Elimination Tool
Select one answer
A
Kept, because it compares Disney World to the natural landscapes of Florida.
B
Kept, because it places Ross at a particular iconic location during his childhood.
C
Deleted, because it detracts from the Ross' experiences in the other locations.
D
Deleted, because it adds a detail that is irrelevant to the discussion of Ross' early life.
Answers
GPT-4o mini
B
Kept, because it places Ross at a particular iconic location during his childhood.
Kept, because it places Ross at a particular iconic location during his childhood.