MERRY CHRISTMAS
ROBERT BATEMAN’S GIFT TO READERS
Omynce again, the Times Colonist is presenting art by Robert Bateman as a Christmas gift to our readers. “My world, as much as possible, is of making,” Bateman says. “When we designed our new house in 2003, I resolved to finally have my studio just the way I wanted it. The studio windows face north to minimize direct sunlight and there are small skylights, but not directly overhead. “Birds have been part of my life since I was 12 years old and so bird feeders were a must. This painting is of that little piece of my world where I spend my time every day when I am home.”
The Robert Bateman Centre, on the Inner Harbour in Victoria since 2013, is a gallery of art and nature with the largest permanent collection of Bateman’s work.
The centre also offers rotating exhibits from emerging artists. It is featuring oneTree 2017 until Jan. 31, with more than 60 wood pieces transformed by artists from a single walnut tree into one-of-akind décor, furniture and even musical instruments.
The centre’s gift shop features more than 100 Bateman limited-edition prints, puzzles, books and educational games, as well as locally crafted artworks and jewelry by local artisans.
All purchases support the Bateman Foundation’s efforts to reconnect people of all ages to the magic of nature.
The Robert Bateman Centre is in the Steamship Terminal building at 470 Belleville St. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for other days this holiday season.
The centre will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.