In Search of the Transcendent, painting about a quest, art bear, painting of misty trees, shaman headdress art, art with wise owl shaman, anthropomorphism art, painting of a canoe, jungle scene art, art meaning journey, painting about transformation, art with flower bouquet. painting of a boat, painting about the journey home, art about human-animal hybrids or chimeras. soulful uplifting inspirational art, soul stirring illusion art, romantic art,  surrealism, surreal art, dreamlike imagery, fanciful art, fantasy art, dreamscape visual, metaphysical art, spiritual painting, metaphysical painting, spiritual art, whimsical art, whimsy art, dream art, fantastic realism art, magic realism oil painting by Paul Bond

Transcendence is defined as something beyond the range of normal human experience. The desire for such an experience has fueled every quest through the ages. The qualities we reach for in our journey towards that aim are most commonly rooted in three things: the search for deeper knowledge, both of ourselves and of the world around us (as represented by the owl/shaman); a longing for personal empowerment and freedom (symbolized here by the strength and conviction of the bear, and the boat representing free will); and finally, by the desire for love (as signified by the flowers). Love is who we are at the very core of our being. It is our divine essence. And so, quite simply, it could be said that every quest is the journey home.

In Search of the Transcendent

24 x 36 - Oil on Canvas - Sold, Private Collection