For nearly a decade, Kristen De Palma has been bringing stories to life through the beauty of lettering. With a signature vintage-inspired style, her work spans book covers, packaging design, editorial illustrations, and large-scale murals.
Before becoming a full-time artist, Kristen spent over 15 years in marketing, giving her a unique ability to align her artwork with strategic goals. She has collaborated with brands like Adidas, Pepsi, and Trader Joe’s, and she is also behind To & From Gift Co., which is known for its award-winning floriography seed packets.
Based in Halifax with her husband, Justin, and their two rescue dogs, she continues to leave her creative mark on the city and beyond. We caught up with her to learn more about how Halifax has shaped her work, the impact of her murals, and the places that inspire her creativity.
How has Halifax and its people shaped your work?
I feel incredibly grateful to Halifax and its people for how I’ve been able to grow my passion for lettering into a full-time career. If I had left and tried to make my way in a big city, I likely wouldn’t have been afforded the same opportunities in such an oversaturated market. In Halifax, I’ve carved out a niche for myself and have been able to build strong relationships with local businesses and other artists. Word of mouth is so powerful in a city where everyone knows everyone.
What impact has your lettering and mural work had on the community?
I really hope my lettering and mural work have played a small part in contributing to a brighter community. Our city—like so many others right now—is up against many challenges, and I hope my work provides a little bit of positivity and character and makes people feel good.
How do the words of wisdom in your murals reflect Halifax’s local culture and vibe?
Halifax has a reputation as being a friendly city, and I’m proud to live in a place that is so welcoming and inclusive. Whenever I’m working on a mural, I like to make sure the art reflects this—that might mean including other languages in the artwork, or simply ensuring that the messaging and design is friendly and inviting.
You’ve worked with the city on many important projects—do you have a favourite one?
It’s impossible to pick a favourite! But the big ‘warm welcome’ mural at Granville Hall Student Residence holds a special place in my heart because it represents the first BIG mural I ever did and the moment when I truly decided I wanted to do this for a living. It features the word ‘welcome’ in more than 20 languages most commonly spoken by the students that live in the residence.
This project was funded by the Downtown Halifax Business Commission’s Gritty to Pretty placemaking program and I was so grateful to have been trusted with the opportunity. It allowed me to connect with another local artist, Jake at Talking Wall. We’ve gone on to do many other collaborations—including another exciting one in the works now! The Monday after I finished this project in 2021, I gave my notice at my corporate job and haven’t looked back.
What places in HRM inspire you or have influenced some of your work?
I’m especially inspired by natural imagery like native flora and the ocean. Visits to the Halifax Waterfront or Public Gardens are great for refreshing this inspiration. Many clients want murals that depict well-known landmarks in the city, which is also a lot of fun to draw, but I love to find ways that nod to a pride of place beyond the tourist attractions.
As a lettering artist, I’m always on the lookout for unique, hand-drawn signage. A lot of my inspiration comes from the past and I love digging through the Nova Scotia Archives and browsing old signage and advertising from our city. There’s a unique character and charm to hand-drawn signage that you just can’t achieve with a standard font. Last summer, I released a print called Iconic Signs of Halifax as a tribute to this.
If a friend were visiting, what places would you include in a day itinerary?
We’d start the day by visiting one of our amazing coffee shops—Dilly Dally & Bliss Caffeine Bar are two of my favourites! Aside from the great coffee, both make their own pop tarts.
Then, a visit to the Halifax Waterfront would be a must—it’s the perfect way to see why so many people love to visit our city because of our proximity to the ocean.
Next, I’d take them on a shopping trip to Inkwell Modern Handmade Boutique, Duly Noted Stationery, and Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia to browse creations by local artists and find a unique souvenir.
I’d end our day at Highwayman over shareable plates and delicious cocktails.
What are some of your favourite creative shops or attractions in Halifax?
I love a good stationery store visit! I could endlessly browse notebooks and greeting cards. Inkwell Boutique, Duly Noted, and Halifax Paper Hearts are a few shops that I frequent.
I also find a ton of inspiration in vintage and antique shops. The Halifax Vintage Co-op and Lost & Found are a couple of favourites along with the Curio Collective Vintage Show.
I’m a big reader and I love an independent bookshop—browsing Agricola Street Books with a coffee in hand, is the most zen, enjoyable experience.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
