Javier André de la Cruz

Javier André de la Cruz was born in 1999 in Vienna, where he now lives and works. Growing up in Comas, Peru, the artist has experienced many challenges that have led to his toxic relationship with masculinity. Comas is considered one of the most populous and poorest neighborhoods in the city. Many people who live in Comas live in slums with poor housing conditions, including Javier. In these neighborhoods, toxic masculinity can be a significant problem, as traditional gender roles and expectations are more rigidly enforced and young men are pressured to conform to masculine stereotypes. This has led to violence, abuse, and other harmful behaviors that had a negative impact on the artist.

His artistic exploration centers on confronting internalized toxic masculinity. This includes working with and exploring themes of vulnerability, sensitivity, and traditional, as well as non-traditional, expressions of masculinity.