Flight of the Muse, painting of a woman wearing a carnival mask and costume in a flying boat, painting with flying turtles and seagull birds leading the way, painting of girl with magic container, portrait of a woman in a boat, art with rope, painting with boat in tow, art with canoe, painting wtih ship boat, art with lantern lamp, art elements with clouds and sky, art with ornate box, painting of flying girl, metaphor of painting idealism, art with sea turtle, 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, limited edition giclee, signed art print, fine art reproduction, original magic realism oil painting by Paul Bond

The term ‘muse’ comes from Greek mythology and refers any of the nine Goddesses of Inspiration considered to be the source of knowledge in literature, science and the arts. I had sketched out a rough idea for this painting a few years ago, but it wasn’t until recently that it came together. I literally met a muse, who became the model for this painting’s central image and the rest came together quite magically! Like the mystery of creativity, the source of what pulls her boat through the heavens is also unseen. On her journey she bestows sprinkles of the inspiration stored in her box to a lucky few. The turtles accompanying her are also symbolic of good fortune. She hides her identity behind a mask so as not to risk being captured by those who would keep her for their own selfish purposes. She is to be shared and revered by all who seek her graces.

Flight of the Muse

24 x 36 - Oil On Panel - Sold, Private Collection