Rising Stars: Meet Stephanie Saharopulos of Long Beach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Saharopulos

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I owned a plant shop for 8 years, and when I closed my physical storefront, I chose to return to my previous role as a bookstore manager.

My book collection was growing, both with new and vintage finds. I would visit flea markets to hunt for old publications, one of which was Global Architecture. Each issue featured sketches of floor plans, and I’ve always been captivated by them. I even have a few displayed in my home.

One day in 2023, after an intense therapy session, I picked up drawing again—something I hadn’t done since I owned my shop. All the greeting cards I sold back then were illustrations I created myself. Most of the drawings I created for my greeting cards were of plants, except for one I did in honor of David Bowie’s death, a drawing of his eyes and the words “let all the children boogie.”

Once I found my flow, I started a daily art practice, drawing every single day. I wasn’t focused on any specific outcome or on what others might like. I was drawing purely for myself, doing what felt good.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
After I closed my shop, I went through a grieving period that I wasn’t prepared for. It hit me harder than I expected, and it took time to process the emotions of that loss.

For eight years, I had worked in an environment surrounded by plants, and I had the privilege of connecting with my community on a daily basis. I miss that so much. Having a daily routine with plants had worked wonders on my mental health. When that routine was gone, I really felt it.

It took time, but through both time and therapy, I’ve come to understand that I needed to experience that discomfort. It ultimately pushed me to look deeper within myself.

I’ve finally found a place where I can channel my energy into a new endeavor with full commitment and focus.

Pullhouse has come to life.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
When I picked up drawing again, floor plans were a huge inspiration. After drawing everyday my drawings gradually evolved into what it is today. When I look at one of my drawings, I can picture what’s happening in every section or room, imagining the life and energy within those spaces.

I imagine there being music, plants, and maybe even some dancing in one of the rooms. Each space feels alive with its own vibe.

My main medium is markers on card stock and other textured paper. I also love collage and block printing.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Music has always been a huge part of my life. Growing up as a latchkey kid, I would come home to an empty house and make the most of it. I’d drag my mom’s full-length mirror into the living room and practice my dance moves—haha. One song that always stands out is Kraftwerk’s “The Telephone Call,” which I would blast every time.

In my mid-twenties, my husband gifted me turntables for Christmas, and that’s when I began DJing in my living room for friends. It eventually led to DJing in countless kitchens. I guess I’ve always had a thing for rooms.

I was DJing all over and eventually started doing weddings. That was short lived.

Music has always been my church along with dancing and laughter.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @hellopullhouse