By Cansu Peker

Effesod’s digital art brings together futuristic aesthetics with surreal, immersive environments, resulting in striking 3D visuals that feel both otherworldly and emotional. Specializing in stage visuals, album artwork, and promotional design, Effesod creates digital experiences that often feature intricate environments, abstract forms, and bold color palettes.

Inspired by a range of artistic influences, from the haunting surrealism of Beksiński to the grandeur of Baroque art, Effesod’s creative world is shaped by a fascination with death, the ethereal, and the unknown. Music also plays a pivotal role in his process — songs and lyrics often spark vivid imagery that demands to be translated into visual form.

We asked Effesod about his art, creative process, and inspirations.

Can you tell us about your background as a digital artist? How did you get started in this field?

I don’t really have a formal background in this field. One day, a friend of mine, who is a musician, asked me if I could create cover art for him. For some reason, I said yes—despite having no prior experience with it. That was the first time I ever explored digital art, and from that day on, I haven’t been able to let go of it.

In the beginning, I mainly worked on more "traditional" digital art styles, like photobashing. But about a year and a half ago, I transitioned into the world of 3D art.

What inspires your art?

There are two major sources of inspiration for me:

First, other artists. I’ve long admired creators like XVNI, Bill Elis, _thearchangel, Beksiński, and even classical Baroque works. I think these influences played a big role in my decision to dive into 3D art. I’m especially drawn to themes of death, the surreal, the dark, and the ethereal.

Second, music. Music is a huge part of my life. It might sound a little unusual, but often when I hear certain songs or lyrics, I get a vivid image in my head—something I feel compelled to bring to life through my art.

Can you tell us about some of your favorite pieces? What makes them special to you?

I’ve had the chance to collaborate with some of my favorite artists—musicians whose work I listen to intensively in my personal life. Two projects that stand out to me are Sueco - It Was Fun While It Lasted and Amira Elfeky - Skin to Skin. Both artists are incredibly talented, and I feel truly grateful to have been a part of their creative journey. Huge thank you and shoutout to Lucas & Tylor here while I have the chance.

Your work blends futuristic aesthetics with surreal atmospheres — what draws you to this combination?

I’ve always been fascinated by the contrast between what feels futuristic and what feels otherworldly. I love blending sleek, cybernetic elements with eerie, dreamlike atmospheres—it creates a sense of unease but also wonder.

I think this balance comes naturally to me because I’m drawn to visual storytelling that feels both familiar and alien, like stepping into a reality that exists just outside of our own. A lot of my work explores themes of decay, transformation, and the unknown, and this mix of futuristic and surreal aesthetics helps me capture those ideas.

What’s the most exciting part about designing stage visuals for live performances?

Definitely seeing them come to life in a live setting. So far, I haven’t had as many opportunities to create stage visuals as I’d like, but one experience that stood out was working on visuals for the $uicideBoy$ - GREYDAY 2024 Tour.

Watching the fans react to the visuals was incredible. Seeing how many artists come together to create something so massive was inspiring—huge respect to everyone involved in that project.

Are there any recurring themes or symbols in your work that hold personal meaning for you?

Yes, several. A big one is the fusion of organic and mechanical elements. I love exploring how the human form can be altered, extended, or consumed by artificial structures—it plays into ideas of identity, transformation, and existential dread.

Another recurring motif in my work is the use of light and shadow to create an ethereal, almost sacred atmosphere. There’s something about stark contrasts, glowing forms, and hazy environments that feels deeply emotional to me.

And of course, themes of mortality and the afterlife appear frequently in my work. I find the concept of death—both as an end and as a transition—endlessly inspiring.

If you could design a dream project, no constraints, what would it look like?

I honestly don’t know exactly what it would look like, but two names immediately come to mind: Sleep Token and Bring Me The Horizon.

Working with them would be an absolute dream. Bring Me The Horizon has built an incredible world around their music—everything from their Instagram aesthetics to their merchandise, live visuals, and music videos.

I feel the same way about Sleep Token. It’s hard to put into words how much their music fascinates me. Their sound is deeply emotional and cinematic, and I’d love to create visuals that bring that energy to life.

What is a fun fact about you?

I had a period in my life where I watched Horror movies to fall asleep. Don't ask me why and please don't think that I am a complete Psychopath.

What else fills your time when you’re not creating art?

Definitely my dog. I have an Australian Shepherd who helps me clear my mind outside of work—he’s a real support system for me. In short, if I’m not creating art, I’m spending time with my dog.