Javier Calleja

It wasn't me

€1,600

Artwork

Edition of 250

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Javier Calleja simplifies life’s complex threads with a single, mischievous character.

The wide-eyed figure, adorned with impish horns and a wicked smirk, starkly contradicts the text floating above them. ‘It wasn’t me’ hints at a grander tale, waiting to be told. Full of suggestive contrasts and rendered with bold use of fiery hues in soft pencil, Calleja’s artwork captures the interplay between innocence and mischief.

The print is a 15 colour engrave, using 4 photopolymer etching plates with a final colour applied by hand by the printmaker. The artisanal production process will begin as soon the draw for the edition is held, and will take 16-20 weeks.

"My intention is that the spectator creates their own story when they are looking at my work."

Behind the scenes

01:59

Javier Calleja looking towards the camera

Javier Calleja10 collaborationsCalleja’s work is equally sarcastic as it is sensitive. His portraits depict stylised figures with exaggerated heads and big, melting eyes, reminiscent of Manga or Anime characters. Scrawled across their t-shirts, phrases like “FUCK YOU ALL” undercut their apparent cutesy innocence. Facial features with perfectly merged gradients are contrasted by flat, single-colour backgrounds and loose line-work that illustrates their bodies. The artist also translates his painted figures into fibreglass sculptures that, with their uncanny animated style and manufactured finish, evoke the works of contemporary artists such as KAWS and Yoshitomo Nara - or indeed a lonely Playmobil toy. This constant strand of irony underpins Calleja’s oeuvre, bringing a sharp edge to the alluring simplicity of his aesthetic.

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Reviews from Avant collectors

Thanks again for great collaboration and looking forward to new projects and pieces for my collection.
Review of Descendent - Lucid Dreamer
very good quality of the print and very professional service 👍
Review of Inner Love
Love my print and the safe packaging provided by Avant Arte. Thank you!
Review of Menippean Satire
You are the best in the business and the nicest people to do business with. Thank you!!
Review of Portrait and Head
Very efficient, delivered as advised and superbly packaged.
Review of Guardian
The work is exceptional and looks fantastic. Thanks for doing a beautiful job executing and shipping it, very much appreciated.
Review of Actual Size
I’m really happy to add this piece to my collection. It’s always a pleasure working with you — thank you for making everything so smooth. Looking forward to hearing about more great works!
Review of Untitled
the Service was perfect and i love my print
Review of Sleepy

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