Joan Cornellà

A smile with an unsettling story

Cornellà builds his imagery around the contrast between friendly-looking characters and uncomfortable situations. Bright colours, simple gestures and fixed smiles make the figures instantly recognisable, while leaving their meaning open. Beneath the approachable surface is satire about behaviour and social habits.

From drawing to sculpture

In three-dimensional work, a pose, an object or a brief title can carry the whole scene. Collaborations with AllRightsReserved translate this economical visual language into vinyl figures and illuminated objects.

My Life Is Pointless at Sotheby’s Hong Kong Gallery in 2021 brought together painted panels, bronze sculptures and prints. The exhibition VIP followed at EM Gallery in Seoul in 2023.

Four works at ArtComburo

Idiotmeter Man Green holds an imaginary device for judging the people around him. Yogawork turns multitasking into a six-armed figure attempting to remain calm. In I Hate Everyone, a welcoming gesture clashes with the title. Lampman combines light with an absurd scene involving a socket.

Compare the gestures and side views as well as the main photograph. Each product page specifies materials, dimensions, edition details and current availability. A figure can make a distinctive gift for someone who shares Cornellà’s sense of humour. Explore other artistic approaches in Exclusive Art Toys.