Is it an original painting if I follow the Bob Ross instructional books and paint one of his paintings, but?

I pretty much agree with the first answer, though I would add to it. When you are starting out as and artist, what you need to do is concentrate on developing skills and learning techniques. It is best to learn as wide a variety of skills as you can, so I see nothing wrong with trying the Ross technique. At this stage, though, I would not consider any work really salable. In fact, many artists stash away or destroy their early, weaker work when they do begin creating better quality art. Do look for other teachers and techniques. Try other mediums, too. Most serious painters spend plenty of time practicing oils, watercolors, acrylics, and basic drawing techniques before considering themselves full-fledged artists. Give yourself at least a couple of years to explore the craft of art. Then increasingly explore your own desires for expression until you. I say wait until you feel confident as an artist before you start selling.

I would not exactly call it an original....perhaps slightly modified would be more exact....If I were to sell it in these times, I would definitely include the word "copy".....by my signature. Maybe it is just me, but I really don't think that copying anything is a good idea. Use a picture for reference, but never copy it exactly. I used to tell those who were not exactly artistically inclined to find several pictures that they liked and make a composition using something from each picture. This seemed to work pretty good, but, I would not ever encourage them to copy.

I've been a Bob Ross instructor for several years teaching at my home studio, Michael's and Hobby Lobby. I would recommend changing at least seven things.