The story of the great herds of bison that once roamed North America is well known and maybe even legendary. The shameful fact is, however, that we do not need legends to tell the story of those herds. They were recorded and documented in recent history by so-called civilized man. Newspapers and railways played a part in the great slaughter. Buffalo slaying trips were advertised and organized. It was done on purpose, and it was done not long ago, part of an official government program to destroy the way of life of the original peoples. And a bit of profit was made in the bargain.

The native nations of the great plains worked and lived with nature. The bison were their source of food, clothing and shelter. It seemed almost beyond belief that such vast herds could be exterminated in so short a time.

I called this painting "Chief" for several reasons. This is obviously a dominant male rushing along, turning as he goes to confront a potential enemy. Many of the wise old aboriginal chiefs whose lives were linked to the bison were also fierce and powerful. Lastly, we had a dear friend, another dominant male, who has departed. His nickname was "Chief."

- Robert Bateman