Alejandro Aguilar Canela: Graphite Drawings That Turn Darkness into Transformation
Austin-based artist Alejandro Aguilar Canela is featured in the Critic's Choice exhibition at Ki Smith Gallery in New York, which will be open until September 6. His graphite drawings, ranging from two to four feet in width, delve into themes such as depression, anger, and sexuality, seen as pathways to personal development. Canela values 'mistakes' in his art, using spontaneous marks to express his perspective. Significant works include 'If I Could Protect You' (2024), 'A Rodent in the House 01' (2025), and 'If You're Here, Congratulations' (2026), along with the 'Grey Drawings' series. The exhibition's installation views are attributed to photographer Roman Dean, highlighting an increasing fascination with transforming challenging emotions into impactful art.
Key facts
- Alejandro Aguilar Canela is based in Austin, Texas.
- He works with graphite and fine line mechanical pencil on paper and vellum.
- His drawings often span two to four feet wide.
- He explores themes of depression, anger, abandonment, fear, individuality, and sexuality.
- He embraces accidental smudges and marks in his work.
- Several of his works are included in the Critic's Choice exhibition at Ki Smith Gallery, New York, through September 6.
- He sometimes works in sculpture.
- He creates human-like characters to embody emotions.
Entities
Artists
- Alejandro Aguilar Canela
- Roman Dean
Institutions
- Ki Smith Gallery
Locations
- Austin
- Texas
- New York
- United States