Iris Stella is a New Zealand-based, French abstract artist who combines acrylics and organic materials to form relief paintings. Bare environments such as island atolls or sandy beaches have amalgamated in the artist’s memory, forming points of reference through which she invokes universal moods with depth and tone.
Stella’s canvases are at once naturalistic and abstract; from a distance her aerial views are reminiscent of sights seen from a plane window, while on closer inspection their raised surfaces are lyrical studies of texture. Some works appear almost photo-realistic from a distance—a deep blue piece resembles a coastal tide viewed at night, yet at the same time could represent quivering light rays seen from the depths of the ocean. Stella invites viewers to project their own associations onto each painting, which has seen her explore increasingly abstracted forms.
Her paintings have featured in a number of editions of The World of Interiors magazine. Her work was represented at The Wharf Gallery in Raglan New Zealand, Depot Artspace, Wonder Journal in Auckland New Zealand, Saatchi Art, and Red Gallery in Melbourne.
Iris also partnered with the non profit organisation Sea Shepherds Australia to help raise funds for the oceans.
Stella has worked on a number of commissions for clients across Europe, Australasia and the United Arab Emirates.
Follow Iris Stella’s work through her Instagram @iris.stella.f
