The Artist
Damian Ardestani, widely known XOV, is the creator of Surrealium's signature collection and the lead artist of the Surrealium atelier in Stockholm, Sweden.
XOV's artistic journey combines elements of poetry, music, visual art, and humanitarianism, all underpinned by a strong emphasis on introspection, existence, and the essential depths of the human experience. His music, having reached over 100 million streams on Spotify and setting the tone for Hollywood films like The Hunger Games, represents only a segment of his creative spectrum. Now, he emerges as the visionary force behind Surrealium.
Recently, XOV participated in the first-ever fashion show held at the European Parliament, aimed at advocating for the abolition of human slavery. It was a collaboration with fashion designer Louise Xin and Human Rights Watch.
His contribution involved crafting poetry directly based on harrowing survivor testimonials, including those of child laborers in Nepal and former forced-labor prisoners of Chinese concentration camps.
Transmuting Human Suffering Into Art
XOV's dedication to human rights significantly influences his art. He is the founder of I AM YOU, an organization that addresses human suffering in global crises. His collaboration with Human Rights Watch, particularly his role in leading a committee of artists to co-create artworks in service of human rights, underscores his deep commitment to these causes. Additionally, XOV's personal volunteer efforts in some of the world's most challenging humanitarian crises, including his time in what the BBC describes as "the worst refugee camp on Earth," profoundly impact his art, often drawing upon these intense, lived experiences.
Creative Process
XOV's creative process often begins with digital or physical mediums, like digital brushes or acrylic paint on canvas. He then refines his work, incorporating various generative and digital techniques to upscale and add new complexities to his works. XOV's artistic versatility extends to various forms, including installation art and mixed media, such as crafting intricate silver and gemstone jewelry, sculptures, and more.
XOV's collaborations extend beyond Surrealium to encompass a diverse range of artists and mediums. One noteworthy collaboration involved director Phil Griffin, known for his work with artists like Amy Winehouse, Prince, and Madonna, as well as performers from the dance company of Troubleyn Jan Fabre, known for 'Mount Olympus,' a 24-hour performance that delves into Greek mythology, portraying the complexity of human emotions and societal themes. Together, they brought 'Nebula' to life—an installation and art/music video filmed at the Troubleyn theatre in Antwerp, Belgium.
Drawing inspiration from Sufi rituals and physical spiritual practices, XOV created a series of human monuments, which were seamlessly animated by performers.
