Eric Johnston uses academic realism, traditional surrealism, and abstract approaches to contemporary topics to create paintings that are direct manifestations of the way humans perceive nature and the environment in which they exist. The driving force behind his creativity is his search for meaning in our existence by connecting with the world through symbolic recognition. Drawing inspiration from his life, dreams, desires, and the parallel reality encompassing him, he questions our innate aspirations concerning personal happiness. Johnston received training in Fine Arts from the Academy of Art in San Francisco, and resides in Northern California.