In ‘Ascent,’ Debra Baxter Explores the Power in Vulnerability, Mysticism, and Time

Debra Baxter's latest exhibition, Ascent at Roq La Rue, showcases her unique sculptures that delve into the realms of consciousness, nature, anatomy, and spirituality. The artist, who contracted Covid-19 in 2022 and developed long Covid, found herself with ample time to reflect during her recovery. This period of introspection led her to explore a more mystical dimension in her work, which is complemented by a touch of punk and meditative calm.

Baxter contracted Covid-19 in January 2022 and experienced long Covid, which led to her spending more time recuperating than working on her usual heavy-duty art. It was during this phase of recuperation that she received visions that altered her artistic direction. The sculptures in the exhibition were initiated five years ago, but her newfound spiritual insights sparked a fresh direction in her artistic practice.

In "Ascent (Pamela)," alabaster and bronze, the artist uses human hearts effervescent with crystals, which can be interpreted as emotional or biological calcification or as a tangible manifestation of the spirit. Similarly, "The Day I Tried to Live" and "Fade Into You" consist of gleaming growths on a hinge, allowing the work to be open-hearted, yet capable of shutting away its energy.

Baxter also employs earth-derived materials that are solid, thereby creating a tension between vulnerability and strength, as well as between the fleeting and the permanent.

The artist pays homage to historical sculptures in her smaller-than-life-size alabaster busts, depicting women in an aesthetic representation that is typically reserved for men. These women in Baxter's sculptures are striving to maintain a higher consciousness while simultaneously fracturing and falling apart. This is a reflection of her love for the history of sculpture, her fascination with the intrinsic truth of materials, and her belief in the power and intuition of women.

Works like "Veil" refer to the nature of seeing and awareness, while also acknowledging the thinness of the boundary between our world and the next. Baxter herself notes that life has taken on a more permeable quality in a more spiritual and profound manner. As she puts it, "I started to feel as if I was embodying the mystical concepts I had been researching."

Ascent continues through October 3, offering a glimpse into Baxter's spiritual and mystical journey through her art. Viewers can find additional insights into Baxter's work on her Instagram profile.