Kara Fox approaches her art with intensity, her practice rooted in a deep-seated curiosity about the world around her. An artist equally committed to the process of creation as to the final outcome, revealing a mind deeply immersed in the complexities of visual language.
With each piece, she invites viewers to participate in a dialogue about perception, meaning, and the role of art in contemporary society and the enduring power of human creativity.
In this conversation, Kara Fox offers a glimpse into her creative process, providing insights into the mind of an artist deeply invested in the evolution of contemporary art.
Born in Johannesburg, I spent my early adult years traveling the world before settling in Cape Town, which I believe to be the most beautiful city on Earth.
I’m drawn to exploring themes of nature, spirituality, and the human condition through my art which is characterised by vibrant colors set within single-line drawings that form the basis of all my paintings.
I’ve always been a creative right-brain thinker, and art has always been a natural outlet for me. My father, a graduate of fine art and a creative director in advertising, was a huge influence. Growing up, I was constantly surrounded by art and design. I studied art throughout school and won a few awards, which encouraged me to pursue it further.
My style evolved over time. I was particularly drawn to the early works of South African artist Karel Nel, and I admire the bold and expressive style of Keith Haring. I think their influence can be seen in my work.
Initially, the ideas were just casual sketches and doodles in my journals, and then they developed into a love for painting the shapes created within the lines, a fascination with the single line that can create shapes within its infinity. Over time, I grew captivated by the forms emerging from these lines, and became obsessed with the idea of a single line holding endless potential to create shapes. I loved the notion that my drawings had no beginning and no end, and I love to imagine that once each work is complete, it will be difficult to know where the line originated on the canvas.
“Guccihuasca” is a piece I created in 2020 that exemplifies my artistic style, with its vibrant colours and the continuous line drawing.
Guccihuasca
The painting’s title suggests a blend of luxury and the psychedelic, which was inspired by the buyer.
I experimented with my single-line technique in this piece to create a dynamic and energetic, abstract work.
The interplay of light and shadow adds depth and dimension. Beyond the visual elements, I intended “Guccihuasca” to evoke a sense of vitality and connection to nature, while also inviting deeper contemplation.
“Summer” is another acrylic painting on canvas that explores the playful possibilities of a single line.
Summer
Commissioned for a little girl’s room, it features a vibrant red background and a meandering line filled with hidden animal shapes in yellow, inspired by the young girl’s African heritage. This painting aims to spark imagination and curiosity: with this artwork I hoped to create a sense of joy and wonder for viewers of all ages.
Inspiration comes from everywhere for me. It’s a mix of conscious and unconscious processes. Sometimes, ideas come spontaneously, like a flash of lightning. Other times, inspiration brews slowly, and emerges from a deliberate creative process.
I’m constantly observing the world around me, from nature to human interactions. My emotions, dreams, and even random objects can spark a creative flame.
While I don’t have a strict routine, I do find that immersing myself in different environments and experiences fuels my creativity. Inspiration can strike in many ways.
I often find myself drawn to nature, spirituality, and the human condition, and these themes often serve as a starting point for my work.
Additionally, the people around me, both their stories and emotions, can be a powerful source of inspiration. I believe that maintaining an open mind and a curious spirit is essential for cultivating a rich and ongoing source of inspiration.
Absolutely! Art is a reflection of its time. By incorporating contemporary issues and cultural events into my work, I aim to create pieces that resonate with the present moment. Each artwork becomes a snapshot of our collective experience: a historical document that captures the spirit of an era. This approach allows me to engage with the world around me and create art that is both relevant and enduring.
I believe art has the power to transform and inspire, and I feel a deep responsibility to use my platform to contribute positively to the art community.
There’s a definite sense of responsibility to the art community. I believe artists have a unique role in shaping culture and discourse. I hope to contribute to a vibrant and inclusive art world where everyone feels empowered to express themselves.
Ultimately, I hope to create work that leaves a lasting impact and inspires future generations of artists.
It’s incredibly humbling to think that my work can inspire others. Ultimately, I hope to create art that resonates deeply and encourages people to connect with their own creativity.
It’s essential to support emerging artists and contribute to the vibrant versatility of the art world. I believe in the power of art to transform lives and societies, and I’m committed to using my platform to promote creativity and inspire others.
To keep pushing boundaries, challenging myself creatively by exploring new techniques and themes while staying true to my core style.
My goal is to create work that resonates with people on a profound level, sparking conversations, emotions, and new perspectives. Perhaps I see my art as a bridge between my personal experiences and the collective human experience. Ultimately, I aspire to create art that resonates deeply, provoking thought and emotion.
Kara Fox is an artist deeply rooted in both introspection and a broader engagement with the world.
She invites us to look beyond the surface and to engage in a profound dialogue about the nature of our human existence..
Her art – while exciting, energetic, abstract and vibrant – reveals a strong sense of purpose and ambition, coupled with a commitment to creating art that leaves a lasting impact.
Notably, her emphasis on supporting emerging artists and contributing to cultural discourse highlights her role as a multifaceted artist invested in the growth of the art world and capturing the now through art as a historical footprint.
Her work is a testament to the enduring power of human creativity, a force that shapes our understanding of ourselves and our surroundings.