Album covers have long been a canvas for storytelling, a visual companion to the music’s emotional and thematic core. Eliran Kantor, a Berlin-based artist, has redefined this art form, blending classical aesthetics with modern narratives to craft some of the most iconic visuals in metal music. With collaborations ranging from Helloween to Testament and Soulfly, Kantor’s work has become synonymous with visual depth and originality.

The Journey from Teenage Walls to Global Recognition

Kantor’s love affair with art and metal began in his youth, where he painted murals of his favorite bands on his bedroom walls. By 15, local bands noticed his talent, commissioning him for album covers. This grassroots beginning paved the way for a career that now sees his schedule booked months in advance, driven by a passion for music that mirrors his clients’ fervor.

Creating Stories with Brushstrokes

Kantor’s process is as meticulous as it is imaginative. Before starting a project, he immerses himself in the music and lyrics, ensuring his art resonates with the album’s essence. His preference for digital painting retains the authenticity of traditional brushstrokes while allowing for flexibility in revisions—a necessity in a field that thrives on creative spontaneity.

When bands approach me with clichéd ideas, I steer them toward originality

Kantor explains.

Iconic Collaborations and Challenges

One of Kantor’s most challenging works was for Helloween’s self-titled album. Balancing fantasy elements like dragons and celestial imagery, he infused originality into a genre saturated with repetitive motifs. The result? A trifold cover that visually encapsulates the album’s epic narrative and its reunion lineup’s significance.

Kantor’s versatility shines in his ability to adapt to different bands’ needs. Whether portraying the brooding themes of Sodom or the futuristic tones of Cryptosis, his art enhances the listener’s experience, turning albums into collectible pieces of storytelling.

A Balance of Passion and Practicality

Despite his growing fame, Kantor maintains a grounded perspective. “I work on projects where I’m part of the target audience,” he shares. This self-focused approach ensures authenticity and fuels his creative energy. Yet, the demands of his craft—balancing time, maintaining originality, and meeting high expectations—are challenges he meets with unwavering dedication.

Inspiration Beyond the Canvas

Kantor’s inspirations are deeply rooted in the music he loves, often listening to demos or past works to spark his creative process. While his art borrows from classical aesthetics, it is grounded in modernity, avoiding unnecessary distractions to keep the story front and center.

 

Eliran Kantor’s work transcends the traditional boundaries of album art, merging music and visuals into a unified narrative. For fans and casual listeners alike, his covers invite a deeper exploration of the albums they represent, proving that in the world of metal, the artwork is as crucial as the music itself.