“As a lifelong art enthusiast, I like to say, ‘Art isn’t just a hobby for me. Art is a part of who I am.'”

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Meet Jen DeVore, a Certified Bob Ross Instructor® and the artist behind Mountain Oil Paintings. Based in Golden, Colorado, Jen brings the joy of painting to life, helping people tap into their creative sides, relieve stress, have fun, and connect with others — all through the magic of Bob Ross®.

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Jen teaches Bob Ross® painting classes once a month at Ethan’s Gallery & Studio in Olde Town Arvada, the only Bob Ross® classes in Colorado taught in an art gallery setting. As Jen shares, “The art gallery features local artists only and is an inspiring location to take a painting class.”

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Jen’s artistic journey has been a creative adventure. She’s explored photography, embroidery mountain scenes, acrylic painting, and now focuses on oil painting using the alla prima or wet-on-wet style. She’s been inspired by Bob Ross since the 1990s, watching him on TV and painting along with his videos. “I started by painting along to his videos. Then I flew to Muncie, Indiana to take a workshop and visit the Bob Ross Experience, which is the actual TV studio where he filmed The Joy of Painting® show. After visiting Muncie, I was hooked and decided to go through the certification process.”

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In 2024, Jen completed 120 hours of in-person training over three weeks to earn her Certified Bob Ross Instructor® designation. “Two of those weeks were in New Smyrna, FL with Nic Hankins, VP of Bob Ross Company, at Bob’s original gallery. It is my honor to carry on the Bob Ross legacy.”

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Jen’s business isn’t just about art — it’s about community. She says, “The best part of being a small business owner in Colorado is the community support. We are always leaning on each other and cheering each other on to success!” Jen also gives back by donating original paintings to silent auctions, hosting free painting demos, and providing class gift certificates to support local charities such as the Hearts & Hope Gala, Friends of Red Rocks, local schools, and assisted living communities.

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One of Jen’s most meaningful moments as an instructor came from a Vietnam veteran who took her class. “He shared that painting along with Bob on TV for years has helped him overcome PTSD, and now taking in-person classes with me has helped connect him to community. Being able to brighten someone’s life through art is a wonderful experience and privilege.”

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Jen has been in business since September 2024 and teaches people of all skill levels — from beginners to advanced painters. She also credits her success to finding the right partners: “The biggest challenge I’ve overcome as a business owner is finding a great strategic partner with Ethan, who owns the local art gallery in Arvada where I host classes. It’s been a win-win for us both to partner together and enrich the community.”

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For other entrepreneurs, Jen shares this advice: “Remember that givers gain. Give back to your community as often as you can.”