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

Sold out

Love this work?

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

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.

Who else should know about this work?

Help us spread the word

Reviews from Avant collectors

Excellent quality and communication! excited to continue this relationship with Avant Arte and team, and explore more art
Review of Inner Love
the experience and artwork far exceeded my expectations.
Review of "The only bond worth anything between human beings is their humanness."
i loved the details of the note and gloves. well done!
Review of Ringers #962: The LACMA Iterations
The Avant Arte team is all around top notch. Excellent communication and everything is always packaged so thoughtfully. A+
Review of Ringers #962: The LACMA Iterations
Very well presented and with cert.
Review of Actual Size
everything in the communication has been pretty clear and fluid, the tracking before delivery was detailled and fast, the packaging was enought secured and the final artwork is incredible !
Review of B BOY JUSHI
You are the best in the business and the nicest people to do business with. Thank you!!
Review of Portrait and Head
Avant arte staffs are lovely. They always kindly help when I have problem or question.
Review of City Fountain

Discover more print editions on Avant Arte

See all

Available

Trudy BensonRed Sky€459

Available

Claudia ComteMorphing Waves with Fire Corals€1,350

Draw

Glenn LigonUntitled (Black on Black)€3,000Closing on 17 September

Draw

Abdulnasser GharemHemisphere€4,000Closing in 00d 00h 00m