Description
American Kestrel and Grasshopper – 21-5/8 x 29-1/8; Offset Paper; Edition Size 1250; $335.00 U.S.
“One of the most dynamic little predators of North America is the American kestrel. Its dapper plumage
makes it even more special. As it is a falcon, the kestrel is trim and streamlined and hunts prey on the
wing. Even sitting still, it looks swift and agile. The vivid harlequin pattern of its face, with the
characteristic lustrous eye and teardrop markings of the falcon, almost makes the kestrel look adorable.
As prey well knows, however, it is an efficient and ruthless hunter. Late summer is grasshopper season,
and the fields are a happy hunting ground.
In this painting, I have shown a tousled, almost opulent meadow with several species of grass.The wind
has imposed a rhythmic pattern to it, and it seems, like the kestrel, to be in motion while in repose. I
have designed the painting to have the kestrel streaking in from the top left in hot pursuit of the
grasshopper. The swishy wave action of the grasses carries the motion across the picture,with
the dark green in the lower right creating the diagonal tension.” – Robert Bateman
Biography
Robert Bateman has been called the most famous living artist. He continues to paint and tour the world to promote conservation and preservation of nature. We have represented Robert Bateman for decades and are now the sole publisher and distributor of his reproductions. We are so honored to work with him and witness his success. He has made such a massive contribution to the art world and the natural world as an artist and educator of the earth’s most important resources.
Nature as a subject is becoming more and more popular as our environment is in peril. What better subject is there than the beautiful creatures we share this world with? Robert Bateman’s appreciation and understanding of nature are apparent in his paintings. He is able to paint flora and fauna the way your eye would perceive it in real life. It is important that the animal takes full attention. The background becomes muted, and therefore it doesn’t take too much focus away from the subject. His paintings seem effortless and masterful all at once.
Bateman’s eye for composition is unparalleled. Each painting is a composed like a symphony, leading the eye to wander. From the backyards of North America to the sprawling plains of Africa. Robert Bateman captures nature the way it should be enjoyed. Above all he is a champion of wildlife. For this reason he has become a household name for art collectors.
