Robert Bateman's realistic painting style, featuring wildlife in its habitat, encourages examination of the natural world. He is a well-known artist, naturalist and spokesman for many environmental and preservation issues. The subject of numerous books and films, his honours and awards include Officer of the Order of Canada.
Life Statement:
"I can't conceive of anything being more varied and rich and handsome than the planet earth. And its crowning beauty is the natural world. I want to soak it up, to understand it as well as I can, and to absorb it . . . and then I'd like to put it together and express it in my painting. This is the way I want to dedicate my life."
'Helliwell Park Eagle'
30"x40" acrylic on board
"Helliwell Park is surely one of the natural treasures of British Columbia, if not the world. I have been doing the Helliwell walk since the 80s and it never ceases to delight. The blend from grassy meadows to magnificent Douglas fir woodland is a treat for the eye. The same applies to cliff and sea and distant mountains. Added to this is the spectacular wildlife viewing. I have always felt honoured to see a bald eagle. Even though eagles are commonplace (and even nest) in Helliwell Park, the sight of them never becomes stale."
