About JAVI
Born in Puerto Rico, JAVI is a contemporary Western artist whose oil paintings and sketches draw inspiration from the American West. Although not originally from Arizona, his connection to the desert landscape comes from time spent under its open skies and vast horizons. The Arizona desert’s space, light, and atmosphere strongly influence his work, shaping both subject matter and mood.
JAVI’s art frequently features cowboys, wildlife, and wide landscapes, symbolizing resilience, solitude, and progress. He honors Western history with respect for Native American communities, offering a contemporary perspective shaped by his personal journey marked by perseverance and strength. Fashion plays a key role in his work, combining traditional Western attire with modern style to explore identity and cultural expression. Through renderings of clothing textures, he highlights the connection between dress, place, heritage, and story.
His pieces reflect the intersection of land, history, and personal experience. JAVI captures not just the look of the West but the feeling of moving through its landscapes, from day to night beneath the desert sky. This invites viewers to engage with the spirit of the place.
He has gained growing recognition through numerous exhibitions and publications, including recent shows such as the Chill Pill Summer Invitational at Five15Arts Gallery, the Yellow Exhibition at FOUND:RE CONTEMPORARY, and the Portland on The Park Collection Exhibition Cycle 16, all in 2025. Internationally, his art was featured in the Senses Exhibition at Holy Art Gallery in London, UK, in April 2024.
JAVI’s artistic path focuses on exploring and expressing the enduring spirit of the West while staying true to his own voice and experience. His work pays tribute to the power of place, history, and fashion to inspire contemporary creativity grounded in authenticity and respect. He is currently developing a new series that will showcase his signature bandanas and turquoise stones, continuing his exploration of symbolism and Western aesthetics.
Artist Statement
My art celebrates the rugged beauty and resilient spirit of the American West, focusing on Arizona's majestic landscapes and open land. Through my work, I explore my journey as an artist, drawing inspiration from the vibrant desert scenery and the broader world of American Western art. I intentionally choose to paint figures, desert landscapes, wildlife, and natural elements. These subjects allow me to explore how light and shadow play together, highlighting the stunning desert views, intricate skies, and changing cloud forms. These natural settings are where I find my inspiration.
Much of my creative drive comes from contemporary Western fashion, the timeless beauty of the desert, and its plants and animals. The rich history of Native American and cowboy culture also adds depth and context to my work.
What makes my art unique is how I blend traditional and modern techniques. I use dynamic angles and a color palette that combines natural shades with modern tones. Each painting reflects a personal exploration of landscapes that deeply resonates with me, depicted through figures that embody endurance and resilience. My work is an intimate reflection of my journey through the vibrant and storied landscapes of Arizona and the West.
Contact
Interested in Commissions?
Starting waitlist on February 2026