Moss Galleries Presents John Hultberg: Angels Above Fear
Moss Galleries is thrilled to announce its representation of the late American painter John Hultberg (1922–2005) with the exhibition John Hultberg: Angels Above Fear. This captivating exhibition is currently on display in Falmouth, Maine, and will run through May 31. Hultberg, once lauded by Time magazine as a “darling of American art,” is a renowned figure in postwar art, known for his unique style of “abstracted realism” that defies traditional categorization.
Elizabeth Moss, the founder and director of Moss Galleries, expressed her admiration for Hultberg’s work, stating, “John Hultberg’s art exudes a sense of urgent mystery – haunting, prophetic, and profoundly human. We are privileged to honor his legacy and introduce his art to a new generation of art enthusiasts and collectors. Hultberg’s uncompromising vision continues to resonate with audiences, making it more relevant today than ever before.”
Originally from Berkeley, California, Hultberg served as a US Navy officer during World War II before honing his craft under the tutelage of acclaimed artists Clyfford Still and Mark Rothko at the Art Students League. His early career was marked by accolades, including winning First Prize at the 1954 Corcoran Biennial and showcasing his work at prestigious galleries like the Martha Jackson Gallery in New York and venues across Europe. Despite his early success, Hultberg’s fame waned in later years, leading to his relative obscurity in the art world today.
Interestingly, it is Lynne Drexler, Hultberg’s wife who worked diligently behind the scenes during her lifetime, who is currently enjoying a resurgence in the art market, garnering attention from major museums and critical acclaim. Meanwhile, Hultberg’s profound and prolific body of work remains underappreciated. This contrast raises thought-provoking questions about how the art world reevaluates artists’ legacies, the role of gender in artistic recognition, and how artistic vision is perceived after an artist’s passing.
Despite his diminishing presence in the art world, Hultberg’s work, characterized by moody symbolism and psychological depth, feels as poignant and relevant as ever, particularly in the context of today’s uncertain and tumultuous world. To explore more about John Hultberg’s captivating artistry, visit elizabethmossgalleries.com.
