00:15

Once and In my life prints shown as a pair

Javier Calleja

Once in my Life (diptych)

€1,000

Artwork

Once: Edition of 980 / in my Life: Edition of 970

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Javier Calleja debuts a once in a lifetime project with a pair of time-limited prints.

Based on defining original works from Calleja’s upcoming magnum opus, the editions will be available to all for 24 hours only – and can be ordered separately, or as a diptych.

Calleja’s endearing figures are led by emotion. The two sketches selected by the artist encompass his distinctive character stylings and use of irreverent slogans. A single phrase spans both works, revealed in full when they are seen together. Together, they nod to the significance of a project that has commanded two years of the artist's attention.

The editions translate original soft ground etchings into intricate hybrid prints. Areas of vibrant colour are enhanced by layers of varnish and red ink applied on a silkscreen. Finally, each print is authenticated with a bespoke artist stamp – unique to the edition.

100 Once in my Life T-shirts will be allocated at random when prints are dispatched. Worldwide shipping is free.

Behind the scenes

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

Incredible piece, well packaged, everything was A+++.
Review of Snow Lotus No. 1
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
very happy with everything, the piece is better than I expected. Taking it to the framer next week :) thanks!
Review of Centrifuge
I was lucky enough to have been invited to see the creation of this piece of work back in June and met the fantastic Miwa so seeing this print now is just fantastic. The colours are every bit as vibrant as the original.
Review of Sacred Connectedness
Excellent quality and communication! excited to continue this relationship with Avant Arte and team, and explore more art
Review of Inner Love
Sculpture was better than i imagined it to be.
Review of Ugly Bastard
First of all, the prints was everything we expected. What was a pleasant surprise was the impeccably packaged shipment of the work which went above and beyond anything we would have expected. Great communication and service.
Review of Fuzz Gathering

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