Javier Calleja

It wasn't me

€1,600

Artwork

Edition of 250

Sold out

Love this work?

Subscribe to get notified about any cancellations and early access on next releases.

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.

Who else should know about this work?

Help us spread the word

Reviews from Avant collectors

It's my 1st art piece and I love it! I wish I got it framed.
Review of Guardian
the print is amazing. cant wait to frame and hang.
Review of Rainbow Bridge
Love the piece I got and the communication about its timing was excellent.
Review of Interior: Red Couch and Landscape
very impressive package: gloves, certificate etc.
Review of Actual Size
perfect customer service! thank you
Review of Untitled
Beyond my expectations and Avante Arte will be my only source for online art. No others compare to the artists and perfectionism that Avante Arte offers. Thank you.
Review of Guardian
I am so happy with my purchase, and really all the work that Avant Art is doing to connect real people with artists. thank you!
Review of Inner Love
The monent I opened the box I was pose struck. I’m headspinning beyond happy with this piece of artwork! This piece pops like bubble gum and a great addition to my other pieces by the artist. Great communication and packaging from AA!
Review of B BOY JUSHI

Discover more print editions on Avant Arte

See all

Available

Jack KaidoICYMI, 2024€2,500

Available

Wang Yan ChengBetween Two Poles€5,000

Draw

Backside works.Princess€1,700Closing in 00d 00h 00m

Draw

Piet Mondrian EstateComposition with Red, Yellow, Black, Blue, and Gray€500Closing on 18 August