Wide eyed sketched figure looks out with blue eyes

Javier Calleja

Once

€600

Artwork

Edition of 980

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. Once is the left hand panel of the 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

Since it was from overseas, I was worried about whether the product would arrive without damage, but it was carefully packaged and arrived without any damage. Thank you very much. And I am satisfied with the work.
Review of Sacred Connectedness
Looks really great - high quality print arrived in perfect condition. Thank You!
Review of Guardian
It looks great and is one of our favorite pieces to add to our collection. We think the printing looks fantastic!
Review of Scaffold
Beautiful piece! Love it so much
Review of Actual Size
Incredible piece, well packaged, everything was A+++.
Review of Snow Lotus No. 1
We are incredibly impressed with the quality of our print and the level of professionalism of Avant Arte.
Review of Actual Size
Fantastic work, fantastic customer experience
Review of Lost in Time
Great piece, arrived in excellent condition, thanks!
Review of Ringers #962: The LACMA Iterations

Discover more print editions on Avant Arte

See all

Available

Marcus JansenAfro Painter€850

Available

Margo Wolowiec-57°€1,750

Draw

Zeng FanzhiEphemerality (13)€2,500Closing on 26 August

Draw

James JeanBlossom Kannyu€350Closing on 20 August