El Chico Llama
Illustration capturing moments, colors and architecture of Madrid
Javier Navarrete, known as El Chico Llama, is a Madrid-born illustrator who has burst onto the Spanish art scene. Originally from Carabanchel and currently living in the Chamberí neighbourhood, El Chico Llama captures in his work the moments, places and characters that bring Madrid to life.
His art is easily recognizable: pastel colors and a harmonious combination of characters, architecture and nature, where every detail is carefully chosen.
Beginnings and Formation
Javier Navarrete's journey in the art world began with his training in Fine Arts at the Complutense University of Madrid, followed by a Master's in Graphic Communication Design at the Tracor Institute.
Before dedicating himself to illustration, he worked for more than eight years as a UI/UX designer in companies such as Multivent, Axel Springer's Aufeminin Group and BBVA Next Technologies, where he perfected his skills in visual design and communication.
EL Chico Llama's style: pop culture and nature
What distinguishes El Chico Llama 's work is his ability to capture the interaction between characters and their environment: the architecture, the landscapes and how these elements coexist in perfect harmony.
His style combines an aesthetic inspired by pop culture and a special attention to nature. This interest in detail dates back to his childhood, when he collected leaves and flowers for his own herbarium, a memory that continues to be present in his illustrations, where he depicts plants, buildings and spaces with great precision and delicacy.
Collaborations and awards
His talent has been recognized and valued by prestigious brands such as BBVA, Amazon, Pfizer, Disney+ and Sony Entertainment. He has also collaborated with communication agencies and customized art direction projects. His presence at design events in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia has consolidated his place in the creative community.
In 2023, he was awarded the Laus Silver Award, one of the most important recognitions in the world of graphic design in Spain.
Inspiration and references
El Chico Llama's influences are as diverse as his illustrations: music, film and literature are part of his creative process, and give his work a depth that connects with the viewer.
His illustrations are, in essence, collections of small moments of life captured with a serene color palette and a style that balances the retro with the contemporary.
The collaboration between El Chico Llama and The Madrileñer is another unique reflection of life in Madrid and its most emblematic corners, from the classic cafes to the parks and squares that give life to the city. If you are looking for a print of the essence of Madrid combined with a light style and a dose of pop culture, El Chico Llama's illustration is a sure bet.
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