Javier Calleja No Wings to Fly, 2023 is a stylized caricature that blends into the artist’s unique oeuvre of big-eyed, large headed figures that call reference to the cartoons Calleja observed as a child. Made in conjunction with AllRightsReserved, a Hong Kong based creative studio that was established in 2003, Calleja works to bring the illustrated world of childhood wonder and magic to our peripheral as we reminisce on the memories that brought us joy and excitement.

The young boy Calleja has created is presented in a standing posture with straight feet and bent at the waist, frozen in the decisive moment right before he pushes off the ground and takes off. With Calleja’s signature smile at the corner of his mouth, his giant glassy-eyed gaze beams brightly in anticipation for the wind to rush under his feet. Adorned in a blue shirt and khaki-colored shorts, his feet exposed to the elements, and his arms wide behind him as he takes aim for flight, the artist’s childlike whimsy appears as we feel the excitement swirl around the red headed figure. "My inspiration comes from this idea of flying," Calleja says. "Or better, taking off moment, the jump. To fly was always a dream of mine as a child and this is why NO WINGS TO FLY is mimicking birds wings or feathers with his outstretched fingers. They have big heads cause children have big heads. There is a psychological response to big foreheads, big heads, and big eyes. These distortions have such an effect on an adult brain that they think they talk or interact with a child. So instinctively the adults talk with their heart and not brain. My work helps them find that child and connect with it."

Created in 2023, this mixed media sculpture with vinyl and crystal glass is signed by Javier Calleja (Spain, 1978 - ) on the underside. Numbered from the edition of 888 on the underside.

Catalogue Raisonné & COA:

Calleja No Wings to Fly, 2023 is fully documented and referenced in the below catalogue raisonnés and texts (copies will be enclosed as added documentation with the invoices that will accompany the final sale of the work):

1. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany Javier Calleja No Wings to Fly, 2023.