“My continued exploration of the fluid loop motif serves as a poetic response to what I refer to as Circle Culture.”

Caroline Christie-Coxon’s Fluid Loop motif is a dynamic visual symbol introduced in her work in 2001, encapsulating themes of interconnectedness, environmental consciousness, and cultural evolution. This non-linear, free-flowing form suggests movement and transformation, appearing across various mediums from traditional paintings to immersive, site-responsive installations.

Central to her concept of Circle Culture, the Fluid Loop signifies a shift from hierarchical structures to a more inclusive, circular way of thinking, particularly in ecological and social contexts. This approach reflects a departure from Cartesian dualism, embracing contemporary ecological and Indigenous worldviews that emphasised relationality and the inseparability of human and non-human systems.

The motif mirrors natural patterns such as water cycles and mycelial networks, reinforcing Christie-Coxon’s commitment to sustainability and environmental connection. Its universal presence in diverse cultures from Indigenous patterns and the ouroboros to Zen enso circles bridges past and present understandings of unity. The fluidity of the loop suggests continuous transformation, aligning with evolving perspectives on identity, ecology, and global consciousness.

Inspired by the impactful works of Mark Rothko’s colour fields and Agnes Martin’s grids, Christie-Coxon envisions the Fluid Loop as a defining visual language of contemporary art. Its relevance lies in its ability to transcend cultural and disciplinary boundaries, addressing pressing global concerns. The repeated iterations of the form act as a mantra, possessing unique qualities and infinite potential. As sustainability becomes paramount, the organic, circular motif symbolises the interconnected web of life and our responsibility toward planetary health. It challenges Western linear progress narratives, offering a cyclical, fluid alternative that resonates with Indigenous and non-Western perspectives. Akin to the Zen enso or infinity symbols, the Fluid Loop possesses a meditative, spiritual quality, inviting reflection on humanity’s place in the cosmos.

Beyond a mere artistic element, the Fluid Loop serves as a conceptual and visual language engaging with critical contemporary issues. Christie-Coxon’s work positions it as a symbol of global transformation, bridging environmental, cultural, and metaphysical discourses. In an art world increasingly embracing decolonial, ecological, and interconnected narratives, her 30 years of work with the Fluid Loop motif may become a significant artistic contribution of the 21st century.

“Like the ancient Ouroboros (the snake devouring its tail), my artistic exploration of the organic Circle expresses the unity of all things; never disappearing, rather, perpetually evolving in an eternal cycle of destruction and re-creation. The Circle feeds back, constantly informing itself.”