At 95, Canadian artist and naturalist Robert Bateman still paints every day [Video]

Canadian artist and naturalist Robert Bateman celebrated his 95th birthday on May 24 — and while many would have considered retirement long ago, slowing down hasn’t crossed his mind. 

Bateman is still showing his work at solo exhibitions and international shows, painting every day and enjoying the nature surrounding his Salt Spring Island, B.C., home, where he’s lived for 40 years.

He started painting as a young boy — his first piece was of an elk. For many years, he dabbled in abstract art, before focusing on the realism he’s known for today. 

Bateman spoke to CBC’s Gregor Craigie ahead of his milestone birthday. 

LISTEN | Robert Bateman reflects on career at 95:Gregor Craigie spoke with painter, Robert Bateman.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Happy birthday!

The 24th of May is the Queen’s Victoria’s Birthday. We always had a holiday on the 24th and fireworks. I think it affected my brain, having a holiday in …