Rising Stars: Meet Sandra Zebi

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandra Zebi.

Hi Sandra, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am originally from Sao Paulo, Brazil and arrived to Los Angeles in 1986. Before settling in Los Angeles, I traveled throughout Europe and Asia and lived in London. I came to Los Angeles as part of my journey back to Brazil and fell in love with LA. Venice, CA was the first place I came to in the United States, and I was very surprised at how free I felt living here. It had all the diversity that I experienced in London but with the added touch of opportunities for creative people, more space, and great weather. I first began my artistic career in LA working for other artists as an assistant and painter. One of my greatest inspirations was an Irish potter that I worked for, who demonstrated that it was possible to be a successful artist and businesswoman at the same time. I drew from that experience and started my company, Zebi Designs, applying my own style and technique to create functional ceramics. In addition to functional ceramics, I expanded my ideas and designs and used acrylic painting and digital media to create fine art pieces. I also became passionate about creating public art, making murals and sculptures for the community and abroad. Through the years, I have shown my art in galleries, art festivals, and gift stores. I have had my business and art studio for the past 31 years due to my passion and perseverance, but most importantly the support from those who enjoy my art.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
In the beginning, it was difficult to find my own style and a niche of people who would buy my work. In my first years as an artist, I participated in art shows that were not a good fit and experienced rejection from a handful of galleries. Through those experiences, I learned to overcome criticism and eventually found my audience who appreciated my art and helped me grow as an artist. Those challenges sparked my drive and motivated me to continue to pursue my dreams and believe in myself. I think that without past defeats and rejection, I would not be where I am today. A quote that I lean on is “one thing is for sure, nothing is for sure”.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in functional ceramics and mixed media. I am known for my use of bright colors, ethnic and whimsical images, and curved shapes. What sets me apart from other artists is my unique and distinguishable style, drawing from my Brazilian roots. One of the things I am most proud of is when I see the happiness and excitement from people who buy and collect my work. The gratitude and appreciation fulfill my creativity and my heart.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
My favorite thing about LA is the mix of people living together and exchanging cultures. LA is the land of “everything goes” and gives people the freedom to express themselves however they want (my colorful hair is always welcome). The thing I like least about the city is the lack of public transportation and always having to drive your car. I wish there were more people walking on the streets, although this is getting better.

I love LA!

Contact Info:

• Website: zebidesigns.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandrazebi/?hl=en
• Facebook: Sandra Zebi
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-zebi