Robert Bateman Unveils New Painting - Part 3

On Friday May 9, Royal Roads University staff and faculty had the privilege to see Heritage, the first of a series of 20 original paintings that Robert Bateman has promised to create and donate to RRU. Friday's viewing revealed the first of these paintings which is named Heritage. Representing RRU staff and faculty, Tony Ruffolo and Mary Bernard removed the sheet covering the 5' x 8' canvas. To Robert Bateman's delight, the audience gave a collective gasp when they saw the stark image of a cedar stump in the snow with an eagle on the ground. To our further surprise, Robert explained that the painting was unfinished and sought input from us as to whether he should add falling snow. The audience voted and the results were split. To find out what the artist chooses, we will have to wait and see the finished painting hanging in the Bateman Art and Environmental Education Centre. Robert Bateman explained to the group that the painting is about natural and human heritage; two themes that have shaped his work and his art. The human heritage is represented by the stump, a culturally-modified cedar tree logged long ago. The eagle represents the natural world. The setting is Comox Lake near the coal mines of the Dunsmuir family. This painting's message evokes the purpose of the Bateman Centre - to help us find a balance between the natural and human world.

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[lonemapper]

I would rather see more about his art than listen to him preach about the environment.

[cellochick56]

I would give anything to be able to watch Robert Bateman begin a painting and talk about the creative process.

I met him recently and showed him a portrait I did of him and he said some encouraging words and was nice enough to write a little message and sign it for me. Being a great admirer of his, this was a thrill. I only wish I could have stayed to hear him speak, but I had an orchestra rehearsal to be at. I hope I have the good fortune to meet him again some day. I have so many questions.