Meet Viviane Hebel of Hebel Design in Altadena

Today we’d like to introduce you to Viviane Hebel.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have formal training in integral design and a passion for 3D art that has provided the perfect foundation for becoming a jewelry designer. I began about 20 years ago putting together some necklaces for a friend that wanted an overpriced item from a store. I have been a maker since I can remember, so I saw an interest in accessories that were accessible and had a fresh look as opposed to the cookie cutter designs sold in stores. It later became an issue that I wanted more than the readily available components, so I took silversmithing workshops about 14 years ago and fell in love with the malleability of metal, the beauty of stones and their combination. Jewelry making became an ideal outlet for my creativity.

YA fantasy novels inspired the concept behind the art and drove the creative impulse to transform each author’s imaginings into functional, artistic and wearable designs. When I am not reading, I like to make jewelry inspired by everyday life for everyday wear. I feel most comfortable surrounded by nature and use its harmony as the muse for my pieces.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all. It has always been a learning curve. Specially when you like to test the boundaries and limitations. Dealing with competition and stolen designs is another problem I have encountered. I find that letting go of the problems I can’t solve and focusing on the positive and keep going it the best practice, not always the easiest though. It is very hard to stand out in any line of work specially when it is artistic. It is so subjective and you just need to find a niche where you fit in and get your work to be seen. In this sense, Social Media has been a blessing and a curse all at the same time. It is available to everyone worldwide so the possibilities are endless, but it requires a lot of time and dedication that takes away from what you like to do most. Which is producing your work!

Hebel Design – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am mostly working on Sterling silver and mixed metals, joining in bronze and copper, I love the visual effects of the mixed metals. I do little work in gold sometimes. For a long time, I have been working in connection with fantasy-inspired designs brought to life in books. I also like to get inspiration from legends and folklore. It all connects very nicely with organic, nature-inspired designs. I am really a one-man show (or woman). I have vendors that provide when a special mass production is needed, but I mostly like to work in one of a kind fabricated pieces. I take pride in working every aspect of my business, from customer service to design, production, packaging, etc. I think what sets me apart is my vision and as an artist, nothing tops that!

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I think for a maker, success comes when somebody likes what you do and actually want to have it. It might be small, or it might be big. Just the fact that people appreciate what I am doing and take the time to recommend me, send me a message or leave me a kind review, makes my day.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.hebeldesign.com
• Phone: 1800 214 2111
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/hebeldesign
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/hebeldesign

Image Credit:
Viviane Hebel

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