Stella Im Hultberg

The work of this NYC artist has been popping up in galleries across the country

By Alexandra Edwards
Published: September 22nd, 2006 | 10:43am

Two angular-faced girls with full, pouty lips sit shoulder-to-shoulder, legs pulled up in front of their chests, staring out almost at the viewer, but not quite. The space around them is vaguely filled with splatters and splotches. This is can't you see..., a work done on paper in watercolor, ink, and tea. It's the work of Stella Im Hultberg, an NYC artist who's been popping up lately in galleries across the country.

"My husband and I up and moved to New York City a couple of years ago," explains Hultberg in a recent interview, "when we both started living on freelance income (he's a graphic designer and artist). I had a lot more time to draw and do my own thing, and soon I started a website with a few of my drawings, getting shows, and getting where I am now."

It sounds easy, but it hasn't been such a clear-cut path for the artist. Hultberg began without a formal art education. "I studied Industrial Design, a science degree, at California State University, Long Beach." While in school, she began working in toy design to pay the bills — a job she says was fascinating and fun.

But since the move to New York, Hultberg has been supporting herself mainly through her art. "These days, it's mostly art shows and projects," she says. "The galleries I've worked with have been all so amazing." And it's easy to see why the gallery scene has embraced Stella's work. Her figures are striking — both beautiful and odd — and each piece is distinct while still being unmistakable. "Most of my ideas permeate subconsciously when I'm drawing them. I see them as capturing a moment, mostly private, when people are feeling a certain way — be it melancholy, lonely, insecure, jealous, etc... something private."

Hultberg turns to many different sources for inspiration. "I'm very inspired and influenced by new and old artists, as well as film, music, magazines, photography, fashion... the list is endless. Also, I find people in general and their diversity, and this city I live in (the most diverse!) very inspiring." Among the artists who inspire her, Egon Schiele stands out; it's plain to see his influence on the lines of her figures. And yet, each piece maintains an individuality, a particular touch that feels incredibly contemporary and relevant. Perhaps because her work is essentially about people: "What I'm drawn to the most is people and the different reality each person has and lives in — why we are the way we are."

In addition to being a darling of galleries on both coasts, Hultberg exhibits her work on her website, stellaimhultberg.com, and sells "prints and other goodies" on her store website, momomoogie.com. She also has wonderful t-shirt and wallet designs available on poketo.com.

With such a distinct style and so many terrific prospects, it's clear that Hultberg art will only continue to develop. "I hope to always keep my eyes open, observe, and learn more about the world, people, and myself, as well. And keep growing!"