Over the past year I have been asked by a few people, what is the significance of the fox? The answer is both simple and complex. The simple answer is my last name can be translated into fox. It was this translation that originally gave me the idea to use a fox for my identity.  The complex answer is much more interesting. After considering a fox for my identity I started doing research into the significance of the fox in folk tales and mythology from different cultures. This research only solidified my interest in using the fox as a symbol.

It was fascinating to make the  connection between my philosophy as a designer and the symbolism of the fox. Overwhelmingly, cultural consensus on fox animal symbolism deals with: strategy, quick-thinking, adaptability, cleverness, and wisdom. In China, fox animal symbolism revolved around the afterlife. Lore has it that a fox sighting was thought to be a signal from the spirits of the deceased. Fox animal symbolism takes a turn of intelligence in the Celtic realm, as the Celts believed the fox to be a guide, and was honored for its wisdom. The Celts understood the fox knows the woods intimately, and they would rely upon the fox as their guide in the spirit world. In Japan, the fox was considered one of the rain spirits, and a messenger of Inari the rice god. Here the fox also symbolizes longevity and protection from evil.

Other generalized fox symbolic meanings deal with: focus, determination, and right-action. It is noteworthy to observe the fox while it is on the hunt. We see its entire body is pointed like an arrow – straight and tightly aimed. This is a symbolic message for us to set a determined, and powerfully focused mindset in order to “hit the target” of our desires. The red in the fox is representative of a solar emblem. As a solar emblem the fox animal symbolism deals with: passion, desire, intensity, and expression. The fox encourages us to think outside of the box and use our intelligence in different, creative ways. The fox also brings us a message to try to approach our circumstances differently that we normally would. Be aware of some of our habits, and try a different angle of action. The fox is also a reminder that we must utilize all of our resources (seen and unseen) in order to accomplish our goals. Sometimes this means calling upon some unorthodox methods.

It should be obvious from this summary that fox animal symbolism goes far beyond what we may see on the surface. The fox is a very intriguing animal and for this, I felt it would be the perfect symbol to represent me as a designer.

This entry was posted Wednesday, May 20th, 2009 at 3:57 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.