Organize Robert Bateman exhibition
Petitioners ask the Government of Canada to urge the National Gallery of Canada to host an exhibition of Robert Bateman's art. The government responds that the request was referred to the Gallery's curators for consideration.
Why we would sign this petition
- Gives national recognition to a Canadian wildlife artist and highlights his contributions to culture and environmental themes.
- Matches the National Gallery’s mandate to showcase artists who contribute to Canadian culture and identity.
- Increases public access to Bateman’s work, supporting education and engagement with Canadian natural heritage.
Why we wouldn’t sign this petition
- Exhibitions are limited and compete for space; the Gallery may prioritize other artists or themes it deems more urgent.
- Asking the federal government to urge the Gallery risks perceived political interference with curatorial independence.
- The petition does not address logistical costs or feasibility; organizing a major exhibition may be impractical or delayed.
The summary and both sets of reasons are AI-generated from the petition and given equal weight. Claims are the petitioners’ own; consult the official record for the full text.
Official petition
Petition to the Government of Canada Whereas: Robert Bateman, a wildlife artist from Salt Spring Island, B.C, is renowned for his art and ecological advocacy; The mandate of the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa is to showcase artists who contribute significantly to Canadian culture and identity; and Despite being one of the most celebrated wildlife artists in the world, Mr. Bateman's work has never been exhibited at the National Gallery of Canada. We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to urge the National Gallery of Canada to organize an exhibition of Robert Bateman's art.
Government response
Response by the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages Signed by The Honourable Marc Miller The Government would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their interest in having the National Gallery of Canada organize an exhibition of Robert Bateman's art. The request has been shared with the curatorial staff of the National Gallery of Canada, as part of the established process for such requests. The National Gallery of Canada notes that it takes the time to review each idea with care and thought, weighing them within the balance of its exhibition priorities.