As I became more involved on campus, I had the opportunity to organize an event for the University of Tulsa’s Springfest celebration in 2021 as part of my student government role. Over winter break, a high school friend had mentioned a fun painting event his university had held in the fall. Students were provided a canvas, paintbrushes, and paints, and a local artist walked through his painting process for students to imitate. I loved the idea, so I proposed a Bob Ross ‘instructional painting’ event for one of the days during Springfest. I learned that one of our Student Union staff members was a professional painter, and he was immediately on board to lead the event.
Bill was a huge hit. He was well known on campus, and everyone was excited for painting with “ACAC Bill”. Bill stood afront a large canvas and crafted a Route 66 scenic painting. He explained how to mix primary colors, texture, and other techniques. In 30 minutes, Bill had created a masterpiece that is still hung up in the Student Union today.
The student and staff feedback were tremendous. Not only did every attendee have the experience to learn from a professional artist, but they also created and walked out with their own route 66 scene. Nearly 100 paintings were posted online after the event, and Bill became famous on campus. The “Bob Ross painting with Bill” event has gone down in history as memorable Springfest event and has been recreated in several different fashions. I was overwhelmed with support from the students and staff and am without a doubt proud to be a TU Golden Hurricane.