Avalokitesvara is a beloved figure in Buddhism, known as the Bodhisattva of Compassion. He embodies the boundless compassion of all buddhas. This enlightened being is dedicated to helping others achieve relief from suffering and embodies infinite compassion and mercy. Across various cultures, Avalokitesvara is venerated in different forms; for instance, as the female Guanyin in Chinese Buddhism and as Chenrezig in Tibetan Buddhism. (Avalokitesvara Bear is based off of his form as the four-armed Chenrezig.) Often depicted with multiple arms and heads, Avalokitesvara symbolizes the ability to reach out and assist countless beings simultaneously. Many Buddhists invoke Avalokitesvara in times of trouble, seeking solace and guidance. He is a powerful representation of selfless love and kindness.

This painting is based on another one of my thankgas. Because he is depicted with white skin in the original, I thought he should be a polar bear in the Arctic. Chenrezig's root mantra is om mani padme hum, literally meaning "praise to the jewel in the lotus". While there are many interpretations of what the core teaching symbolizes, it is thought that because the lotus blooms from the mud, the teaching is that enlightenment exists in all things (even mud). If that is true, it is also in the Arctic!

For those curious, the other deities surrounding Avalokitesvara in the painting clockwise from the top left are White Tara, Amitabha, Usnisavijaya, Vaisravana, Palden Lhamo, and Kalarupa.