Javier Calleja gained recognition in the art world due to his distinctive figurative pieces, which frequently showcase short, wide-eyed figures with exaggerated features. The Spanish artist's portfolio includes painting, sculpture, and works on paper, along with a variety of editioned pieces and merchandise. Calleja has exhibited in galleries across Madrid, Barcelona, New York, Paris, and Hong Kong, among other prominent cities. Several public collections in Spain have acquired his artworks. In March 2021, Calleja set a new secondary-market record, surpassing US$1 million for the first time, when his 2019 painting Waiting for a While was sold for HK$8.8 million (approximately US$1.1 million).