Eliran Kantor

Eliran Kantor, an artist whose vivid imagery has become synonymous with the Heavy Metal genre, yet remains a discreet presence behind the music he helps visualize, was born in 1984. His artistic proclivity was nurtured at a young age by his father, a painter who adorned their home with scenes from Disney and the iconic characters of Pink Floyd’s ‘The Wall’.

Though Kantor hails from Bat-Yam, Israel, his spirit has long wandered, eventually finding a home in Berlin, a city he first visited at 16 and to which he permanently relocated at 24. His fascination with Heavy Metal was ignited at 13, with seminal albums from Deep Purple and Scorpions leading him to the covetable album covers of Iron Maiden, Megadeth, and Metallica.

Kantor's inaugural album art was a creation for Solitary, an Israeli band, at the tender age of 17. He understands the deep connection between metalheads and their albums' aesthetic, attributing it to the genre's penchant for elaborate covers that provoke thought, feeling, or atmosphere, a stark contrast to the standard musician portrait.

His personal pantheon of favorite album covers is as diverse as his influences, which range from the political caricatures of Gerald Scarfe to the surrealism of Odd Nerdrum. Kantor’s own favorites include the iconic ‘Killers’ by Iron Maiden and the unsettling ‘None So Vile’ by Cryptopsy.

Kantor has politely declined projects that lack originality or contain offensive content, choosing instead to collaborate on ideas that are fresh and unique. His current work includes album covers for Krisiun, Hate Eternal, and Soulfly, with a project underway with Devin Townsend.

With successful exhibitions at metal festivals like Bloodstock and Copenhell under his belt, Kantor is set to focus on these events, bringing his visual storytelling to life beyond the album cover. His work continues to be a bridge between music and art, resonating with fans and redefining the boundaries of what an album cover can be.