Meet Javi—a painting with a backstory as layered as its texture. Born from a sketch hastily (but artfully) scrawled in a Brooklyn café, this piece is the second in a two-part original series. The first one was snatched up by my friend Javier—because of course he had to have it—so naturally, I had to make a second version and name it after him: Javi. Just to thank him. And to prove I could do it again. And I did. Better? Maybe. Definitely with more ear.
Let’s talk technique before we get too emotional.
Javi was painted in 2018, but it carries the soul of a timeless café conversation and the attitude of a New Yorker who’s had one too many delayed subway trains. I used Fix-All (you know, that stuff that’s basically spackle for people who think walls should be smooth and boring) and watered it down to a consistency that would horrify any contractor. Then I let it drip, slop, and streak wherever it pleased. It was glorious.
Next came the texture—because flat paintings are for quitters. I grabbed whatever was within reach: a fork (because, art), a broom (multi-tasking queen), and God knows what else. Anything that could scratch, drag, or gouge into the surface made it into the final look. The result? A painting that’s not just seen but felt—like, literally. Run your fingers over Javi, you’ll get it.
The linear details were created with torn sheetrock tape dipped in gesso. Yes, I ripped that tape by hand like a feral raccoon in a Home Depot. That’s dedication. After slapping on a second coat of gesso (gently, of course), I went in with oil paint. Because if you’re gonna commit, commit with oils. The colors are rich, moody, and unapologetically bold—just like Javi.
Now, the subject. She’s mysterious. Technically a woman, she’s got a look that dares you to ask what she’s holding—but never actually tells you. The dress matches the “hat,” which in a plot twist worthy of an indie film, is actually the black-and-white tiled floor from the café photo I took. Yes, I turned a floor into headwear. It’s called vision.
This piece is framed—because I respect you and your walls. The frame is white with casual, rebellious black brush marks. It doesn’t just contain the art, it plays with it. And Javi looks especially fantastic on a textured wall that isn’t stark white. Beige? Perfect. Exposed brick? Chef’s kiss. That one weird wall in your house that you’re not sure how to decorate? Javi is your answer.
Size-wise, Javi is substantial without being obnoxious: 50 inches wide by 45.5 inches high, framed and ready to hang. A true conversation piece that doesn’t scream for attention but gets it anyway. It’s like my friend Javi at a party—never the loudest, but always unforgettable.
And if you’re wondering: yes, Javi is an ode to you, Javier—your style, your creativity, and your brilliant drag queen performances. If you’ve ever loved a drag queen, if you’ve ever felt art should have drama, depth, and a wink—you’ll want Javi on your wall.
This isn’t just a painting. It’s attitude, texture, movement, and mystery—all wrapped up in one unforgettable frame. Javiis a statement, a tribute, and a one-of-a-kind artwork that’ll make your space instantly cooler.
Ready to bring Javi home? She’s waiting. And she looks fabulous.
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