Music, craftsmanship, and visual arts converge in the work of multidisciplinary artist Xandra van Rossem (Eemnes). Born into an artistic family—with a jazz musician and artpainter as a father and a mezzo-soprano as a mother—creativity is deeply rooted in her DNA. Pursuing an artistic path was a natural and organic step.
For years, Xandra made her mark as a jazz vocalist (1984–2016), having studied vocals at the Hilversum Conservatory. She obtained her master’s degree as a gold and silver smith in 1993 as a result of her commitment to materials and design. From there, she worked as a goldsmith and diamond setter in the Diamond District of Amsterdam. She grew her business in 1997 by adding graphic design, composition theory, and photography to what she did.
Philosophy
From the tradition of Advaita Vedanta, self-realization forms the core of her art. Where language and intellect fall short of grasping true consciousness, Xandra uses photography as a direct visual entry point.
With her camera, she captures reality exactly as it is; it is the reflection of a life lived in radical presence. Through an entirely unique, uncompromising visual language, she immediately dissolves the illusion of separation between mysticism, philosophy, and science.
Work
Over the past thirty years, her work has crystallized into an in-depth exploration of visual metaphors. In her layered collages, she creates an intriguing tension between rigid structure and boundless openness.
Through the subtle use of symbolism and fragmentation, she opens up space for multi-layered interpretations. Underlying philosophical and occasionally dystopian themes translate into a universal, surrealist visual language.