Alejandro Aguilar Canela’s graphite drawings delve into the complex emotions that often leave us feeling lost. Through his art, he explores themes such as depression and fear, turning them into visual narratives of growth.

Based in Austin, Texas, Canela uses drawing to capture these intense feelings, often leaving room for “mistakes” and unplanned marks which reflect his philosophy on the usefulness of adverse emotions. His works vary in size, ranging from two to four feet wide, created on traditional paper and vellum.

Canela says: 'There is another side to our own darkness, one that can reveal new perspectives and accelerate personal transformation.' Through his artwork, he seeks not to discard these unwanted feelings but to find some use for them, allowing them to shape unique characters and human-like forms.

Several of Canela’s works are featured in this year’s Critic’s Choice exhibition at Ki Smith Gallery in New York, running until September 6. His art invites viewers to confront their darkest emotions, turning them into a source of insight and self-discovery.