Curiously

Almine Rech Paris, Turenne presents 'CURIOUSLY', the sixth solo exhibition by Javier Calleja, running from May 30 to July 25, 2026. Calleja describes himself as an "evolutionary artist," whose work builds upon a framework defined through perpetual evolution rather than revolution. His practice draws inspiration from comic strips, particularly the work of Francisco Ibáñez Talavera, and painters like Yoshitomo Nara. The exhibition features small figures, often depicted face-on, engaging the viewer directly. These characters are presented with minimal settings, allowing text, appearing on clothing or in speech bubbles, to take prominence. One piece includes text stating, “The path of the truth is made of realities.”

Calleja's characters, while initially appearing geometrically perfect, have evolved in this new body of work to possess more human-like, expressive features, with oval eyes and occasionally square heads. These figures, as noted by critic Éric Troncy, build an intimate relationship with the viewer, returning gazes and communicating through short, slogan-like phrases such as “Take my Hand” or “Me First.” The exhibition, conceived with the idea of a cabinet of curiosities, explores themes of innocence, irony, and the complexities of navigating the world, reminding viewers of the vulnerability of rights and the process of identity formation. The works are described as outwardly simple and immediate, yet complex and disorienting, offering a vehicle for exploring deeper, less legible aspects of human experience.