Here, we ask an artist to frame the essential details behind one of their latest works.
Bio: Javier Calleja, 53, Malaga
Title of work: One true tree for… (2024)
Where to see it: “One true tree for…” is currently on view at Almine Rech Tribeca (361 Broadway, New York)
Three words to describe it: Drawing, painting, sculpture.
What was on your mind at the time: I try to have a clean mind when I make work and never want to think about what is on my mind or question myself. This is when the purest ideas come, and I can surprise even myself.
An interesting feature that’s not immediately noticeable: I feel this question shouldn’t be for me, the artist, but for the viewer. I’m too aware of all the little things I might’ve hidden in there. Maybe you could let me know about this once you see the show…
How the work reflects your practice as a whole: I always approach my shows as one single work. My background is in installation, where you have to consider the space and existing architecture. So, I’m still working that way—certain colors, elements, and moods connect different parts of it, every painting is related to the other one, and then every exhibition connects to the previous or next one.
One song that captures the work’s essence: “In Dreams” by Roy Orbison.
