MOSS
John Hultberg, “Untitled 4.” Courtesy of Moss Galleries.

The art world’s tendency to overlook significant artists during their lifetimes makes Moss Galleries’ representation of John Hultberg (1922–2005) particularly significant. The recent exhibition “John Hultberg: Angels Above Fear,” which closed May 31, offered viewers a chance to encounter an artist whose work defied easy categorization during his lifetime and continues to challenge conventional artistic boundaries.

While the show has closed, artwork is still available for purchase through Moss Galleries.

Hultberg’s “Abstracted Realism” — a term that captures his unique position between figuration and abstraction – emerged from his studies with Clyfford Still and Mark Rothko, though his mature work developed along distinctly personal lines. His paintings present shadowy figures moving through apocalyptic landscapes marked by mysterious symbols and portals, creating what Elizabeth Moss describes as “urgent mystery — haunting, prophetic, and deeply human.”

The artist’s connection to Maine adds regional significance to his broader artistic achievement. His time on Monhegan Island with painter wife Lynne Drexler connects him to a tradition of artists who found in Maine’s landscape a catalyst for innovative expression. The 2011 retrospective at the Monhegan Museum of Art & History helped reestablish his reputation within Maine’s artistic community, where he ranks alongside modernist masters like Stephen Pace, William Manning, and Reuben Tam.

Hultberg’s multidisciplinary approach — encompassing poetry, playwriting, and teaching alongside painting — reflects the kind of integrated creative practice that Maine has long fostered. His persistence in maintaining artistic vision despite fluctuating critical attention offers inspiration for contemporary artists navigating similar challenges.

Moss Galleries’ championing of Hultberg’s legacy represents the kind of curatorial courage necessary to restore overlooked voices to art historical conversation.

Moss Galleries has two locations: 100 Fore St., Portland, and 251 US-1, Falmouth. For more information, call 207-781-2620, email liz@elizabethmossgalleries.com, or visit www.elizabethmossgalleries.com.