Idriz Berisha: Albanian Surrealist Painter

Idriz Berisha, known artistically as Xhixhi, is a painter and poet born in 1953 in Dobërdol, Klinë, Kosovo. From an early age, he demonstrated a deep connection to the arts, which led him to pursue formal training. In 1972, he graduated from the Art School in Peja, and in 1980 he completed his studies at the Academy of Arts of the University of Prishtina.

For over two decades, from 1972 to 1997, Berisha dedicated himself to teaching art in various schools, shaping new generations of creatives. Following this period, he continued contributing to the cultural landscape by working at the Directorate for Culture, Youth and Sport (DKRS) in Klinë from 1999 until his retirement in 2018.

Berisha is an active member of several artistic and literary organizations, including the Association of Figurative and Applied Artists of Kosovo (SHAAFK) and the Association of Kosovo Writers, as well as the Pegasian Alternative Academy (PEGASI Albania). His multidisciplinary practice bridges visual art and poetry, reflecting a lifelong commitment to creative expression.

Throughout his career, he has participated in numerous solo and collective exhibitions across Kosovo and internationally, including Albania, Italy, Montenegro, Switzerland, and France. His work has been showcased in notable venues such as the EVERGRIN Gallery in Peja, the Gallery of the Ministry of Culture, and various city galleries across the region.

His artistic achievements have been recognized with multiple awards, including second place at the “Agim Ramadani” exhibition in Zurich (2001), the “Flaka e Janarit” prize in Gjilan (2004), first prize in Malisheva (2011), and the “Painting of the Year” award from PEGASI Albania (2012–2013). He has also received the Special Prize at Global Art Prishtina (2013), the “Kadri Kadriu” Annual Award in Mitrovica (2015), and the ART Klina Award (second place) in 2018.

Today, Idriz Berisha – Xhixhi continues to be recognized for his contribution to contemporary art and literature, with a body of work that reflects both cultural identity and poetic depth.