Artist Statement

My work places strong emphasis on the intimate relationship between figure and mark. I find drawing to be an expression of form, power, and beauty—where the touch of the unfinished not only enhances the intimacy of the piece but also communicates the idea of ongoing growth and change. Direct drawing imbues each piece with a sense of intention, guiding the viewer through the ideas, stories, and ideologies embedded in my work. Through this process, I create work that explores autobiographical themes of family, loss, abjection, and the rejection of authority.

I work in processes that are extensions of the handmade mark, with lithography and relief being the most effective in communicating this concept. The forced mark created by the limitations of these processes allows me to express emotions beyond what is achievable through drawing alone. My background in comics and animation breathes life into my subjects, creating dynamic figures that captivate viewers. The appropriation of these graphic arts allows for dramatism in my work, alongside my appreciation of the old masters. 

By using classical techniques, I create tension in my drawings that is only achievable through a deep understanding of form and light. This often results in the deification of my figures. In doing so, I transfigure these godlike figures, bending traditional “rules” with modern techniques in a playful yet critical homage to classical artists.

I can’t help but create the fantastical; art is my form of escapism. By intertwining fantastical elements with autobiographical truth, my work becomes a vessel for processing personal trauma while inviting others to share in a collective narrative experience. Beyond creation being necessary for my own well-being, it is also a tool for storytelling. Drawing allows me to relieve myself of ideas and visions, manifesting them for others to appreciate. By using recurring symbols and themes, I’ve built a library of stories and concepts to draw from. As my art continues to evolve alongside my personal growth, I remain committed to pushing the boundaries of form and narrative, creating work that not only reflects my own journey but also invites viewers to engage with their own personal stories.

ARTIST BIO

Aidan Flannery is an emerging artist from Columbus, OH. After receiving a bachelor of arts from Kent State University (2024), he focused his early career in printmaking, with band posters and t-shirts. With an interest in direct drawing and methods like lithography and intaglio, he began showing his work in galleries around Ohio as well as an artist residency at Zygote Press (Cleveland, OH). His current work draws from his background in comics and animation, with a strong sense of movement and the contrast of graphical chiaroscuro. These pieces are currently on display at Smashart in downtown Columbus. 

A man with reddish hair, glasses, and a beard smiling while looking at an easel with a charcoal sketch of a woman with long hair and closed eyes.

Contact form

Fill out the form and if you are interested in starting a project together!