Stela Railean (also known as Estela Raileanu) is a multidisciplinary artist whose work seamlessly blends diverse cultural influences and creative disciplines. Her artistic practice spans painting, graphics, illustration, and animation, reflecting a rich integration of visual storytelling across multiple mediums.
Estela holds a solid academic background in the arts. She graduated from the College of Fine Arts ‘Alexandru Plamadeala’ in 2008 with a specialization in Painting. She further pursued her studies at the Academy of Music, Theatre, and Fine Arts in Moldova, earning a degree in Graphics in 2012, followed by a Master’s degree in Directing Animation in 2014.
Since 2022, Estela has been a lecturer in Animation at the Faculty of Art and Design, Ion Creangă State Pedagogical University, where she combines her practical expertise with a passion for teaching. Throughout her career, she has participated in prestigious international residencies, including the Ludvig International Symposium in Hungary, the Rebart Symposium in Austria, and the Inter-Art International Art Camp in Romania.
Her professional journey began with a strong focus on illustration and animation, where she has illustrated over 100 children’s books under the pseudonym Loopina. In 2017, she expanded her creative pursuits by founding Loopina Creative, a full-service studio specializing in illustration, design, 2D animation, and stop motion.
Alongside her studio work, Estela has participated in numerous art exhibitions and received several nominations. She is currently involved in international art events, symposiums, and exhibitions.
Over the years, Estela has developed an interest in exploring the manifestation of ego within the complex global processes of globalization and consumerism.
Estela’s art conveys an inclusive perspective on contemporary society and the self. She believes, „Among those to whom humans signal their importance, they must count themselves.”
Her work delves into the complex feminine world and examines perceptions of ideal beauty as shaped by societal interpretations. Her paintings challenge notions of perfection, reshaping female figures into new identities influenced by Bauhausian sensibilities.
At the intersection of Expressionism and Pop Art, Estela creates ambiguous spaces inhabited by disturbed characters that mirror contemporary society. She draws on her background in animation and illustration to craft unique art pieces that reflect her distinctive vision.