ROBERT BATEMAN, OC, SFCA hardly needs an introduction. His is a household name. From his early life, Bateman has been a keen naturalist which is evident in the wildlife paintings that have made him world-renowned. He painted in a representational style until his teens when he began to interpret nature using a variety of contemporary styles; however, in the early 60's Bateman rediscovered realism and began to develop the style that would make him one of the world’s foremost nature artists. His honours, awards and honorary doctorates are numerous; he was made Officer of the Order of Canada, this country’s highest civilian award. He has been the subject of six films, and books of his art have made publishing history, selling more than half a million copies. Bateman’s art reflects his commitment to ecology and preservation, and the Federation of Canadian Artists is proud indeed to have him as a senior member.