Five questions with: Kal Barteski

What motivates you?

I am motivated and inspired by the emotion and beauty in our world and sense of urgency to explore, interpret and share it.

What do you do for a living, and why?

I play.

I used to hesitate to say that but, the truth is that I have been playing for as long as I can remember. I’m an artist. I am passionate and creative. I paint, draw, write and express my emotions visually. It’s the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do and the only thing I’ve ever done.

Which TED talk do you think everyone should watch?

Thandie Newton: Embracing otherness, embracing myself

Why are you excited to speak at TEDxManitoba?

Sharing ideas is an effective way to plant seeds that inspire change. TED is a community of sparks and fires – ideas that have affected people in profound ways. I am honoured to be a part of such positive collective.

What is your idea worth spreading?

I have a deep love for polar bears. I am drawn to their indescribable beauty and their genius creativity. They are powerful, vulnerable and mysterious. They are national, cultural and spiritual icons. Playful yet dangerous. Strong yet in peril. As the worlds largest land carnivore and the face of global warming — polar bears are a minefield of politics and passion. They have become part of my artistic journey and in an effort to understand how to save them — I think they may be able to save us.