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Happy New Year: Connecting with nature through art

Happy New Year from Robert Bateman and the Times Colonist! And to help you ring in 2020, here is a message from the Salt Spring Island artist. Today’s artwork is Snowy Morning — Blue Jay.
Robert Bateman painting, 12312019
Snowy Morning — Blue Jay 2004 Acrylic on Board 12” x 16” by Robert Bateman

Happy New Year from Robert Bateman and the Times Colonist! And to help you ring in 2020, here is a message from the Salt Spring Island artist.

Today’s artwork is Snowy Morning — Blue Jay.

“The blue jay, like our Steller’s jay of the west, is a welcome bird at the feeder. It brings a dash of colour to the winter landscape.

“I have placed this one in a snow-laden wild grapevine. Grapes that remain on the vines will last as food throughout the winter season.”

Since 2013, the Bateman Foundation has been connecting people to nature through the lens of art at the Robert Bateman Centre, in the historic Steamship Terminal building in the Inner Harbour.

Through the largest public collection of the work of the world-renowned artist and naturalist, and educational programs that help inspire a love of nature in our children, thousands of people are connected to the healing benefits of art and nature.

The centre also features a gallery gift shop, which is home to more than 100 Bateman limited-edition prints, plus puzzles, books and educational games, and a selection of artworks and jewelry by Vancouver Island artisans.

All purchases support the Bateman Foundation’s goal of reconnecting people of all ages to the magic of nature. The centre and gift shop, at 470 Belleville St., are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, but closed on New Year’s Day.

For more information or to donate, visit batemancentre.org.