Dark Emotions Evoke Growth in Alejandro Aguliar Canela’s Graphite Drawings
"It’s more about not discarding what might be considered unwanted, but instead finding some use for it," says the artist. Do stories and artists like this matter to you? Become a Colossal Member today and support independent arts publishing for as little as $7 per month. The article Dark Emotions Evoke Growth in Alejandro Aguliar Canela’s Graphite Drawings appeared first on Colossal .
Alejandro Aguliar Canela, an artist based in Austin, Texas, finds deep significance in exploring some of life's most challenging emotions through his graphite drawings. Emotions such as depression, anger, abandonment, fear, individuality, and sexuality are among those he delves into, seeking to comprehend the complexities within each, and how their shadowy paths can ultimately lead to brighter outcomes.
While Canela occasionally ventures into sculpture, his primary medium is drawing. His artworks come in various sizes, with many spanning two to four feet wide on traditional paper and vellum. Canela primarily uses graphite and fine line mechanical pencils, embracing "mistakes" or unintentional motifs—like smudges and unplanned marks—mirroring his belief in accepting adverse emotions.
"If I Could Protect You" (2024), a mechanical pencil on paper drawing measuring 14.3 x 14.4 inches, exemplifies this approach. "There is another side to our own darkness, one that can reveal new perspectives and accelerate personal transformation," the artist asserts. "It's more about not discarding what might be considered unwanted, but instead finding some use for it."
As a result, Canela's innermost feelings often manifest through unique characters, as he creates human-like forms to give them shape. Several of his works are featured in this year's Critic's Choice exhibition at Ki Smith Gallery in New York, running through September 6. To see more of the artist's work, follow him on Instagram.
Examples of his pieces include "A Rodent in the House 01" (2025), "How to Stand Against Solitude" (2024), "If You're Here, Congratulations" (2026), "Undone B" (2023), "Sad Boy" (2025), and "Mother" from the artist's "Grey Drawings" series.
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