Life & Work with Ted Simpson of Farmington Hills, MI

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ted Simpson

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m Ted Simpson, a Certified Bob Ross Instructor, dedicated to sharing the timeless Joy of Painting in the style of Bob Ross. My aim is to cultivate a lasting passion for art, much like the one that Bob Ross ignited within me.

My journey in art spans many years, during which I’ve delved into various forms of artistic expression. Back in the ’80s and ’90s, I found inspiration in the teachings of Bob Ross and his mentor, Bill Alexander, on PBS. Bob’s easy going style and simple techniques make it easy to create an amazing work of art the first time you try. With a love for nature and a dash of practice, anyone can craft beautiful paintings without the need for weeks or months of labor. The beauty of the wet-on-wet technique lies in its easy to learn brush strokes, enabling the creation of compelling artwork in a short span of time. Even if they have never picked up a brush before, students create a masterpiece in just a few hours.

Since 2017, I’ve been teaching class in venues around Michigan. Whether its a 1 on 1 private class, birthday party, or one of my many regular public groups at senior centers of with the local parks and rec department, I teach new and experienced artists alike.

I also teach classes across the country, as part of the Bob Ross, Inc travelling instructor team. From Baltimore to San Francisco, from Florida to San Diego, I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with thousands of eager students, passing on the same inspiration that Bob Ross kindled in me. A special highlight for me is returning to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where I underwent my certification training, to teach at the esteemed Bob Ross Gallery and Workshop.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, the road has not always been smooth! One of the biggest hurdles at the start of my instructor career was organization. Not only was there a learning curve in teaching the technique effectively, but planning those classes months ahead of time was a challege too.

Catering to a prosepective student or a venues desires is something that is a constant challenge. Picking out paintings to their liking, or even coming up with special paintings for a special event keeps me on my toes. Being able to change scenes before or even during classes takes a bit of practice to make the class seemless in completing a work of art in 3 hours.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I teach people how to paint with oil colors in the style of Bob Ross. Bob hosted The Joy of Painting on PBS from 1983 to 1995, before succumbing to lymphoma at the age of 52. Throughout the 403 episodes, Bob’s easy going style and inspirational teachings made him an american icon.

One of Bob’s legacies is the Certified Ross Instructor program. During a rigourous landscape, floral, or wildlife course, new instructors are trained in Bob’s methods of painting and teaching, and therby certified as an ambassador to new students. I created my business, Nature’s Brush Studio, llc to promote my classes and share my love of painting like Bob Ross.

With my classes, I supply everything a student needs to go home with a finished painting. I focus on patience and a fun attitude that takes away the fear of creating art and allows a person to express themselves in new ways. I teach a technique and that helps to unlock a world of creativity. I have had students find their own style and continue their own unique art journey. Ive also have had students become instructors themselves!

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Social media is one great way of networking. Getting students into a class through social media promotion is just the start. Being informative and available helps create word of mouth for both repeat classes is needed as well. Hopefully your students will inspire friends and family to join a class as well.

I dont like to say no, to any size of class, location of venue, or what we end up painting. If I can make it happen, I will!

Pricing:

• $150 for 1 on 1 class, $200 couple’s classes.
• Group classes vary slightly by location, but are typically $70-$90 per student
• Virtual instuction available, individuals and group classes.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.NaturesBrushStudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imtedsim
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naturesbrushstudio
• Youtube: https://www.Youtube.com/c/NaturesBrushStudio