Flight of the Muse

24 x 36 / Oil on Panel
Prints available via www.paulbondart.com

The term ‘muse’ comes from Greek mythology and refers to 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.