Alejandro Aguilar Canela explores the deeper significance behind some of our most somber emotions. By examining themes like depression, anger, abandonment, fear, individuality, and sexuality, Canela seeks to unravel their complexities and discover how the darker aspects of these emotions can lead to a brighter path.
While Canela occasionally dabbles in sculpture, his primary focus is drawing. Based in Austin, Texas, his artworks vary in size, often stretching two to four feet wide on traditional paper and vellum. He predominantly uses graphite and fine line mechanical pencils, embracing “mistakes” such as smudges and unplanned marks, which reflect his philosophy of accepting challenging emotions.
The artist believes, “There is another side to our own darkness, one that can reveal new perspectives and accelerate personal transformation.” He emphasizes not discarding what might seem unwanted but finding ways to utilize it. Consequently, these internal emotions often emerge as distinctive characters, with Canela shaping human-like forms to give them physical presence.
Canela’s works are featured in this year’s Critic’s Choice exhibition at Ki Smith Gallery in New York, open until September 6. More of his artwork can be found on Instagram.
