Part of the Generación de la Ruptura, Xavier was one of the founders of the Prisse Gallery, which helped to break the hold that Mexican muralism artists had on the market in Mexico.
He had his first exhibition, of paintings, in the late 1940s, but it was criticized as showing lack of drawing technique, this prompted Xavier to practice the discipline for nine hours a day and becoming specialized in it.
However, he felt closer to writers and journalists than to other artists, with his work published in newspapers, magazines and books, rather than exhibited in Mexico via art shows.
[1][2] His childhood was spent near the beaches and waters of the Gulf of Mexico and he stated in an interview that this “awoke” his sensitivity due to the saline air and lack of winds.
To survive, he drew caricatures in the center of the city, and sold pottery, perfume knockoffs and herbal medicines.
[1][2] He attended the Escuela Nacional de Pintura, Escultura y Grabado "La Esmeralda" only for six months as he organized a strike to demand more materials for students.
This gallery is credited with allowing the Generación de la Ruptura to gain a foothold in the Mexican art market.
[5] He is considered to be one of Mexico’s best sketch artists from the 20th century along with José Luis Cuevas and Gilberto Aceves Navarro.
He also met Francisco de la Maza who exposed Xavier to pre Hispanic art, especially that of Colima and the frescos and stele of Bonampak.