Behind The Artworks: Hypostasis - Birth Of A Mask (2026)

The artwork for "Birth of a Mask" is a two-part work - the cover art and the back. Considering the themes present in the album (introspection, identity, isolation, grief), we wanted the art to codify some of the concepts we explored. Therefore, the art is directly related to many song titles, lyrics, and ideas present throughout "Birth of a Mask".

The bowed figure is, of course, a representation of the album's protagonist, their face being out of sight, a nod to the core concept of the album - the Mask one wears, which ultimately deprives them of their identity.

The surrounding room is empty and cramped, like a prison cell, isolated from the outside world; the only opening is a large window behind the figure, where we can see the stars, a symbol of hope. However, the protagonist is facing the other way, looking inwardly.

The back art completes the one-sided image by providing an over-the-shoulder view of the protagonist, revealing the rest of the room: blank walls and a large mirror on the wall. The reflection in the mirror is, effectively, the only item of focus in the room, the only thing the protagonist can see; and it is completely empty.

The protagonist's perception of reality is what is represented in the mirror. Their own reflection is not there - a product of their crisis of identity and loss of self. The walls are solid - the window in the back is gone. The protagonist's perception of what surrounds them makes them blind to the only ray of hope, as well as their only means of escape from confinement.

To discover the existence of the window and a way to the stars, they will have to do more than stare at the mirror they have spent so much time looking into; they will have to stand and turn around.

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