NEPHI STATE UNIVERSITY
When working on college class photos, Aaron takes a collaborative approach, engaging with students and universities to capture their spirit and values. Each character in the class photo is crafted with great attention to detail, using techniques from vector art, portrait design, and fine art sketches. Aaron listens to each student’s personal story, dreams, and symbolic preferences. These elements—such as a connection to nature, a memorable dream, or a cherished symbol—are incorporated into their portrait, bringing the work to life as a reflection of their inner journey. For students, having a class photo created by Aaron Martin is an experience that goes beyond simply having their picture taken. Aaron often describes his work as a journey into the "internal substrate of the soul," and he invites each student to join him on this journey, uncovering pieces of their identity that they may not have fully explored before. This process allows each student to see themselves in a new light, understanding their place in the world and in the fabric of their class in a more profound way. Beyond the aesthetic, Aaron’s class photos hold a deeper purpose. He hopes that his work will encourage students to see their time at university as a journey of self-discovery, one that goes beyond academics and social life. By engaging with the symbols and archetypes in their portraits, students may gain new insights into their own lives and aspirations. Aaron’s work is a reminder that our experiences, dreams, and connections are all part of a greater, shared narrative. He sees each student as an integral piece of this story, and his class photos are a way of honoring that connection. For the students at Nephi State University, the Class of 2024 portrait will not only serve as a memory of their college years, but as a lasting reminder of their unique place in the world and the mysterious journey of self-discovery that they are all part of.
Aaron’s work as a character designer extends beyond class photos. His popular comic book series, LIL NEPH, showcases his skill in creating dynamic characters with bold visual storytelling. The same techniques used in his comics—dynamic poses, intricate linework, and expressive characters—are applied to his class portraits. His unique blend of fantasy illustration, graphic design, and character creation results in art that feels alive, inviting viewers to engage with each element and discover the hidden stories within. This multi-layered approach sets Aaron apart as a fine art and digital illustrator, elevating his work from mere depiction to powerful storytelling. Aaron’s character designs and class photos represent a push against standardization and a celebration of personal complexity. His artistic vision transforms what could be a mundane tradition into an opportunity for introspection, connection, and visual storytelling. For Aaron, each class photo is a "map, guide, and portal" that encourages students to explore themselves and the world around them. The Nephi State University Class of 2024 portrait exemplifies this philosophy, depicting students as vibrant characters in a shared, mythic story that invites viewers to look beyond the surface and appreciate the mysteries that lie beneath. Through art, Aaron Martin inspires us all to see ourselves as part of something greater—a timeless story woven through life, spirit, and creativity.
Aaron’s approach to class photos is also rooted in his desire to bring beauty and meaning to a typically mundane tradition. In a world where many experiences are becoming increasingly standardized and impersonal, Aaron’s work offers a counterpoint: an invitation to slow down, to explore, and to reflect. His class photos are designed to be “enjoyed like a movie” for some and as “an intense visual codex” for others, as he puts it. For those who wish to delve deeper, there are clues and symbols hidden within the illustrations, waiting to be discovered by those who take the time to look.
As Aaron continues to create these unique class portraits for universities across America, his work is gaining recognition not just for its artistic quality, but for its ability to resonate on a deeper level. He hopes to inspire a new generation of students to embrace their own complexity, to find beauty in their journey, and to recognize the mystery and wonder that exists within themselves. His work speaks to the "voice inside each person who narrates their own dreams," and in a world that often discourages introspection, Aaron’s art offers a rare opportunity for reflection and connection.