Bear Shultz is a multifaceted artist whose work spans painting, sculpture, and music, creating an inter-dimensional experience that transcends traditional artistic boundaries. From an early age, Bear felt a profound connection to nature, which has continually inspired his artistic endeavors. This intrinsic bond has shaped a career that spans over four decades, rooted in a symbiotic relationship between his environmental surroundings and his creative expressions. Bear's professional journey in the arts commenced in 1978 at the age of 19, when he began working as an illustrator for a publishing company in Lincoln, Nebraska. His talent quickly gained recognition, leading him to sell his drawings, paintings, and sculptures in various galleries and coffee shops throughout the Midwest. In 1988, Bear took a significant step by opening his own gallery, The Heyoka. This gallery was not merely a showcase for his work but a sprawling warehouse of open studios, workshops, and live music, fostering a vibrant artistic community. Throughout the 1990s, Bear balanced his passion for art with a professional cycling career. His travels for cycling competitions took him westward, where he fell in love with the high deserts and mountains of northern Arizona. This new landscape profoundly influenced his artistic vision. In 2000, he established the Earth Gallery and Studios in Jerome, Arizona, further integrating himself into the local art community. By 2012, Bear had relocated the Earth Gallery to Old Town Cottonwood, where it continued to serve as a hub for art exhibitions and music events. Two years later, in 2014, Bear moved his studio to Clarkdale, Arizona. Here, he found endless inspiration in the desert, mountains, and expansive skies. One of his many works during this period is characterized by the large, dreamy poppy landscapes inspired by his landscaping work at the historic Surgeon’s House in Jerome, AZ. The interaction of vibrant colors and the earth during the day fueled his nightly painting sessions, resulting in canvases that invoke profound journeys of the heart and spirit. Bear's paintings are a testament to his deep connection with the earth, often characterized by layers of color that embody his intentions for a deeper, more immersive experience. His art is not just a visual feast but an invitation to connect more profoundly with the natural world and the emotional landscapes within.