In Batemans own words:

“Although most of my paintings are based on a number of photographs often taken during different experiences in nature, once in a while I see a subject that is a “no-brainer” for a painting. This Heron was in the Galapagos where the wildlife is famously tame. It came striding right past us on a beach and I took about 10 shots. The simplicity of the scene reminded me of the cave paintings at Lasceaux. Background would be a distraction. The positive and negative shapes were strong and I was able to play light against dark and vice versa for emphasis.”