I walked into a conservation conference about 20 years ago and saw a beautiful painting of Aspen trees that was going to be raffled off to aid the organization. I registered, turned to leave and there in the middle of the Aspen painting was a huge black wolf head. And so I was introduced to the art of Robert Bateman.
Today we had the rare opportunity to meet and hear Robert Bateman speak and show slides followed by a visit to his home. He also gave us a private showing of his latest creations as well as those of his wife Birgit. The nature and wildlife paintings of Robert Bateman are absolutely wonderful. The passion for conservation of the planet is illustrated in his work. Mr. Bateman’s message not only includes the natural side of his world, but a world of diversity in art forms. He said “variety is the spice of life” and art is no exception. That is why his home is filled with art in paint, wood, ceramics and sculpture. The rooms are filled with examples of art from around the world - Japan, South Pacific, Africa, China, Arctic regions and from The Pacific Northwest. He talked about art from the far corners of the world including woodcarving, pottery and mask making. His garden was another expression of art using personal design along with local and natural materials. In the spirit of conservation, the Robert Bateman team works with Lindblad Expeditions to bring the conservation message to all that prize diversity.
“We must be relentless
in our hearts
and our actions
to preserve the crowing beauty
that is our natural world.”
Robert Bateman
