Aaron April’s art transcends mere representation, inviting viewers into a rich world of allegory and symbolism. His paintings are celebrated for their profound, multifaceted nature, where colors and forms intertwine to create numerous elusive “faces” that encourage individual interpretation and even new titles from the observer. A defining characteristic of his work is its inherent sense of mystery and soul, actively engaging viewers and compelling them to “co-participate” in uncovering its intricate layers. Critics consistently describe his creations as a “chain of mysteries,” and April himself deliberately “leaves space for mystery, for enigma.”

Deeply influenced by the Symbolist movement, particularly Mikhail Vrubel, April reimagined these ideas. Rather than pointing to separate metaphysical entities, he focused on the interplay of the painting’s material elements – the signifiers – as the direct means to achieve meaning. In this framework, the material elements act as a catalyst for memory, and the accumulation of memory becomes the path to attaining consciousness, which he viewed as an “effect” arising from this very process. Consequently, his art can be experienced as a series of riddles or a complex tapestry that demands active participation from the viewer in constructing its meaning.

Within this rich symbolic language, April frequently brings the battle between good and evil to the forefront, often expressed through the dynamic interplay of color. His canvases are populated with strange, elusive images and figures – such as animals linked to childhood fears – that emerge organically from the vibrant layers of paint. His work also explores the universal concept of struggle or strife as an intrinsic aspect of change and becoming, potentially even embodying an erotic force. This depth of inquiry often lends his paintings a speculative nature, encouraging contemplation long after the initial viewing.