Present Tense: An installation by SE Portland sailor and artist Bruce Bateau goes on display at the Lincoln Street Kayak & Canoe Museum in Portland, Oregon April 3-31, 2021.

Bruce Bateau has been seeking communion with salt water since his early college surfing days. For the last decade he has explored the Salish Sea in Row Bird, his 18-foot wooden boat. A columnist at boating magazine 48° North and contributing writer at Small Boats Monthly and Small Craft Advisor, Portland-based Bateau uses writing and art to document his adventures on the Salish Sea as well as the Columbia and Willamette rivers.

Inspired by a 6-week solo sailing voyage through Canada’s Inside Passage, Present Tense is a reflection in words and art on both the literal and the interior journeys Bateau undertook—and on our collective journey through the pandemic.

Working in watercolors, collage, dioramas, and words, Bateau uses stories and images to recreate scenes and experiences from his journey – from the existential threat of an unexpected storm to the quiet moments of awe at the unfolding landscape.

The entire exhibit is Covid-safe and designed to be viewed from the sidewalk outside the museum. 5340 SE Lincoln St., Portland 97215

For more information, contact the Bruce Bateau at bruce.boat.blog@gmail.com