b.1952

 Born in Dallas, Texas in 1952  Living artist  Bates’s paintings, sculpture, and works on paper explore his deep affinity for the South, its people, and the physical and cultural landscape  Especially the Grassy Lakes region of western Arkansas and the Texas Gulf Coast

1981 Photograph of sculptures Figures are carved and painted wood figures and animals, constructed and painted abstract sculpture in metal, and ceramic sculptures. Dallas

 Bates blends the influence of European and American modernists with his lifelong love of folk art.  Noted realistic figure and narrative painter at a time when Abstract Expressionism was all-prevailing  There is also an influence from his interest in wildlife.  Usually paints in oils

1983 Oil on canvas 72 x 62 in. Bates chronicled everyday life from scenes at home to scenes at state fairs and local restaurants. His style combined increasing mastery of technique and vivid patterning with an earnest and gentle humor.

Oil on canvas "H x 76"W Bates is crazy about dogs and he loves to capture them when they are at their warm- nosed goofiest.

In contrast, his landscape paintings show a seriousness.

1986 Pencil on paper He wasn’t able to paint in a canoe in the swamp, so he did studies with sketches of ideas instead. Then in the studiio he would combine them into more formal compostitions.

Oil on canvas 96 x 78 inches In Bates’ bird series from this time period, we see a maturing of his techniques and subject matter. As you see in this example he is exploring the dramatic chromatic effects of changing light in the landscape.

PHOTOPAINTING