During his studies, influenced by the ideas of M. Blondel and H. Bergson, he became a supporter of the neo-Catholic movement. He spread the democratic and cultural values of the West, the ideas of neo-Catholicism, and the aesthetics of modernism. He aimed for the new generation to create Lithuanian modern art based on the principles of Catholicism, which could help the nation achieve cultural independence and survive in the event of possible colonization. Actively participated in the activities of the Society of Writers, was a member of the Union of Lithuanian Journalists.Published critical articles about W. Blake, Ch. Baudelaire, A. Rimbo, S. Mallarme, P. Sezan, P. Picasso, O. Milašii, J. Aistis, translated the works of A. Bazen, A. Dodė, E. Jones, J. P. Sartre, Voltaire. Wrote poems, short stories, dramas, works of literature and art; manuscripts remained unprinted during the Soviet occupation.He is best known as the editor of the magazine "Naujoji Romuva" (1931-1940). This publication aimed to cover wide spheres of culture: art, music, architecture, literature. J. Keliuotis was a notable figure in Kaunas: he gathered artists and scientists from various fields for joint work, engaged in new thinking and discussions, knew how to combine opinions, and foresee distant perspectives of cultural work.He wrote a lot himself; delved into art history, aesthetics, characteristics of the development of Lithuanian culture, cultural tasks. He was most interested in the manifestations of modern art, wrote articles about the world's famous artists and poets.
