In Search of Archetype and Metaphor: Bizarre

Bizarre - Image c 2012 Lynda Lehmann

I've just finished working on this surreal, narrative fantasy landscape with an owl and a large feline in a cave with eyes.  Yes, the cave has eyes.  
I'm making a series of images that I hope will appeal to the imagination and speak to the idea of archetype, metaphor and dream. I've always had a fascination for metaphor, and these images will reflect my personal search for the multiple dimensions of "inner life" that reside in each of us, as I explore ideas of consciousness and meaning, as well as create (as all art does) a new visual experience. 
This image is a bit scary, I think, but I can conjure no particular meaning.  I often wonder about the idea of art needing to have a "meaning" to be legitimate.  Could the meaning lie in just having the ability to evoke an emotional response?  What do you think?  Do emotions even have a place, anymore, in this age of entertainment, distraction, hype and excess?

NOTE: You can click on each photo to see a larger version. All images and text on this blog are copyrighted material, and may be used only with written permission, except where syndication rights have been granted. All other rights reserved. Please visit my sites at http://LyndaLehmann.imagekind.com/ or http://www.absolutearts.com/lyndalehmann/ if you would like to see my acrylic paintings and more of my photography and digital art. You can find a list of my other sites and links in my blog's sidebar. Or google my name for more links. I hope you enjoyed your visit!