Robert McLellan Bateman | Unexpected Bateman

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“Robert McLellan Bateman,” no date

(courtesy of the Gallery)

Unexpected Bateman, is a retrospective that invites visitors to delve into Canadian painter – and Salt Spring Islander – Robert Bateman’s multifaceted artistic journey, spanning nine decades. While Bateman is widely celebrated for his realistic portrayals of wildlife and nature, this exhibition unveils lesser-known facets of his oeuvre, challenging assumptions and inviting viewers to reevaluate their perceptions and understanding of his work.

The intent of this exhibition is to provide greater context, a deeper understanding, and appreciation of the development of Robert Bateman’s artistic practice by placing his work within an art historical framework. It will demonstrate that his work is not only a product of its time but also reflects his awareness of and engagement with contemporary art practices. By examining these foundational elements, the exhibition will offer insight into the influences and artistic movements that shaped Bateman’s unique style and approach. Additionally, it will highlight how his early experiments and engagement with contemporary trends have contributed to his growth as an artist and remain evident in his paintings today.

Regardless of your current understanding or appreciation of Robert Bateman’s art and legacy, his profound impact on our cultural landscape over the past sixty years is undeniable. His multifaceted roles as an artist, activist, educator, environmentalist, philanthropist, and naturalist have left a significant mark not only in Canada but across the globe. “Unexpected Bateman” promises a journey of discovery, offering fresh insights and a deeper appreciation of the evolution of this Canadian icon’s creative practice. Ultimately, we hope this exhibition will challenge us to recontextualize Bateman’s work within the canon of contemporary art history and prompt us to question the standards for determining which artists’ works deserve to be collected and displayed in our nation’s public museums and galleries for the benefit of future generations.

Complementing this major showcase, Salt Spring Arts will feature the annual Youth Exhibit and host a series of public events that honour Bateman’s passion and commitment to education and conservation.

Unexpected Bateman is presented as Salt Spring Arts’ 2025 Spring Art Show in collaboration with the Penticton Art Gallery. The exhibition is conceived and curated by Paul Crawford (Director / Curator, Penticton Art Gallery) and co-curated for Mahon Hall by SSI Curator Zoe Zafiris-Casey.