Erynn Richardson’s Astral Body explores the relationship between the physical body and the soul through a diptych of two foxes depicted in an ambiguous state that could suggest either dreaming or death. Above them, gold-leaf circular symbols represent the soul and the mechanism that allows it to leave and return to the body. The opposing orientations of the foxes reinforce this cyclical departure and return, positioning the soul as something autonomous yet connected, capable of carrying experience fluidly and persisting through physical and metaphysical forms.
These artworks reflect the artist’s broader practice, which has evolved from object-based imagery to animals and, more recently, to architectural forms. Across these shifts runs a consistent interest in considering the role of memory and spirit within objects, animal bodies, and architecture as ephemeral vessels, holding lasting meaning independent of its original function. Influenced by a childhood surrounded by taxidermy, Richardson is intrigued by ideas surrounding what lingers after de-function and how it alters the meaning of the body, imbuing it with residual presence and bridging her earlier explorations of sentimental objects. Through all of these transformations, beauty is always found by Richardson within the ghost of memories past, a skeleton of what once was, forever waiting to be seen.
Balancing representation and abstraction, Astral Body pays particular attention to texture and restraint through technique. A largely monochromatic blue palette sets a peaceful tone featuring ultramarine underscored by burnt umber to create a subdued, contemplative atmosphere, reminding us to not fear the unknown but rather embrace it. The use of watercolor by Richardson maintains this aesthetically charged atmosphere through thoughtful placements of hue and visible patience for minute details. While the foxes’ fur appears almost tactile, attention to detail is taken to conserve the abstracted ambiguity within the meaning of this work as a metaphorical piece. The meticulous rendering of the peonies beneath the foxes, laid petal by petal, adds a quiet counterpoint of labor and care, reinforcing themes of time, beauty in transcendence, and evidential storytelling embedded throughout the work.