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

amazing experience throughout, from the actual purchase to the delivery. it was well package and the unboxing was a sweet experience! can’t wait to have it framed and to hang it on my wall!
Review of La Nascita
we appreciate the care taken in transport. Our piece was unframed but we appreciated how the packaging was done to protect it and also extras like the information on the art and the tote bag. We love the art work.
Review of Guardian
From start to finish, the process of purchasing, claiming the NFT counterpart, and receiving the framed piece was nothing short of excellent. My entire experience with Avant Arte displayed a level of professionalism and excellence across the board. Well done!
Review of Ringers #962: The LACMA Iterations
I’m so happy I was able to purchase this piece for my husband. The quality is top notch and just looks beautiful. Communication with you all has been so easy. Thanks so much!
Review of Descendent - Lucid Dreamer
What a breathtakingly beautiful art print! What a great service!
Review of Inner Love
communication from start to finish has been very informative, quick and helpful. I am happy with the professional way in which the piece has been packaged and shipped, protected to a high degree. Thank you to everyone involved.
Review of Something Forbidden (Blue)
It looks great and is one of our favorite pieces to add to our collection. We think the printing looks fantastic!
Review of Scaffold
really a masterpiece to add in my collection!Thanks a lot🙏🏻❤️
Review of Descendent - Lucid Dreamer

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