Artist Statement

In my large-scale oil pastel drawings, I explore the concept of disassociation and its relationship to time, with a particular focus on the enigmatic notion of "lost" time. I invite viewers to embark on a personal journey into the depths of memories, encouraging contemplation of the complexities of their past selves, their present realities, and the potential paths that lie ahead.  

The self portraits intertwine specific moments, creating layered compositions that evoke a profound sense of impermanence and the multitude of possible outcomes. With each stroke and line, my drawings convey the intricate tapestry of emotions and experiences that shapes my life, raising questions about disassociation as both a positive and a negative experience. I contemplate my own relationship with time and memory, inviting introspection and self-reflection in order to engage with the intricate nature of my own narrative. The vibrant colors and dynamic compositions mirror the complexities of the human experience, reflecting the interplay between past, present, and future. Bright colors and floral motifs are juxtaposed with harsh edges and blunt lines, to create conflicting senses of comfort and apprehension.
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Website: artbyaudrey.org
Instagram: @aud.fox.art ‍

When did you realize you wanted to pursue art professionally?

I've always had a connection to art and artmaking, but I had never considered myself a formal artist until quite recently. The art I made for myself felt too intimate to share. I still struggle at times to fully separate myself from the lens of societal perceptions. In the past few years, I started making work more openly reflective of my experiences with disassociation and anxiety and how those subjects intersect with my identity and place within society. Pursuing art has provided a way of authentically connecting with the people around me. I think that's the highest honor, when your work resonates with someone. It's like saying to them, "I see you, you're not alone with this thing," and it's also this realization that I'm not alone with these hard to process experiences.  

Whether fellow artist or friend, who has continued to inspire your work?

I'm very inspired by the formal aspects of the Pre-Raphaelites, Art Nouveau, and Post-Impressionism. The emphasis on color within all of these movements is something I'm very drawn to. I've always been very intimidated by the use of color since it evokes such intense emotional and psychological responses. I enjoy deciphering the nature motifs displayed in these movements as well, particularly when these motifs further a narrative and have specific symbolisms.  

I find myself drawn to contemporary artists like Kyung Park, Colleen Barry, Michael Slusakowicz, Kati Akraio, Aris Moore, and Mila Zemliakova.  

I've been lucky to be surrounded by a talented art community and to be able to call so many of these artists peers or friends. Gigi Bennett, Yujun Pan, Elissa DeFranceschi, Taylor Pate, and Sarah Joy Dunlap are artists who come to mind when I think of aesthetic influences in particular. They all employ this brilliant sort of whimsy in their work that creates an interesting juxtaposition with the more serious, introspective themes they tackle. I've also found myself very inspired by social and political themes shown in work by Erik Adriel Peterson, Kristina Bickford, Jazlyne Sabree, and Joshua Washington. Working alongside all of these wonderful, talented individuals in the studio definitely shaped my recent body of work.  

What do you enjoy exploring through your art?

I have a difficult time expressing my emotions. Art has provided a much-needed space for exploring and processing my experiences. My recent work centers on the concept of disassociation in relation to time, focusing on a sort of "lost" time. I aim to challenge conventional notions of identity by prompting questions about the reliability of memory, experiences with mental health, and what is missed in "lost" moments. I find myself focusing on the out-of-body experience often associated with disassociation to facilitate conversations on what this separation from reality means for the individual experiencing it and those around them. It allows me to connect with my "lost" time and mourn some of those moments I wasn't present for.

In exploring these aspects of my experiences, I had to confront my identity. Drawing upon feminine themes and motifs, my artwork speaks of my experience as someone feminine-presenting moving through a politically divided and often hostile society. In attempting to reclaim and celebrate my femininity, I have to acknowledge the insidious nature of traditional femininity and how patriarchal structures and misogynistic viewpoints have shaped ideas of femininity. All of this contributes to a complicated relationship with my sense of self.  

Looking back, what advice do you wish you could give your younger self?

Art is subjective. The dismissal of one person doesn't mean failure. It's important to listen and grow from the criticism, but it's equally important to not lose your distinctive voice.  

What is one thing you hope your audience walks away with after experiencing/viewing your work?

I hope that viewers, especially those with similar struggles, will find a form of solace in my work. Art is powerful in that it acts as a universal language. I want people to feel heard or inspired to find their voice.