Discover our illustrators: Sybile

Interview with artist Sybile: The world of Japan and geishas

Sybile, real name Stéphanie, artist and illustrator, invites us to discover a delicate, poetic universe, where the elegance of Japan meets an overflowing imagination. Since her debut in 2009, she has charmed publishing houses, art lovers and now tea aficionados with her unique, expressive creations. In this interview, Sybile tells us about her journey, her inspirations and her creative process.

For several years now, Sybile has enchanted our collections with her delicate illustrations, where the sensuality of portraits comes to life on our portrait-illustrated boxes. Today, she takes us behind the scenes of her artistic universe, sharing her inspirations, her projects and her unique take on art.

Find out about these latest tea caddy creations:

What drew you to illustration?

Illustration kind of found me, actually! I’ve always loved drawing, but it all really started in 2009. Back then, publishing houses discovered my work and asked me to collaborate on various projects. Since then, I’ve never stopped! It’s an adventure that started by chance, but has become a real passion.

Do you have a formal education, or are you self-taught?

I attended art school for a few years, but I consider myself to be mostly self-taught. I learn by practicing, observing and experimenting. Every creation is an opportunity for me to try out new ideas and techniques.

Your style, your universe, is distinctive and recognizable, but we all have our sources of inspiration. What are yours?

Japan, without hesitation! I’m fascinated by its culture, and particularly by the geishas. Their elegance and mystery inspire me enormously. But I don’t stop there: I love inventing characters, exploring various themes, and drawing on everything I can think of to enrich my world.

Do you have a creative ritual you’d like to share?

My ritual is quite simple: a cup of tea or coffee to get me in the mood, then I look for documentation and images to inspire me. Once I’m immersed in it, I grab my pencil and launch into hours of sketching, often without much thought.

Are you currently working on one or more projects?

At the moment, I’m working on free illustrations. It’s a chance for me to explore new ideas, to let my imagination run free, and to create without constraint.

Finally, can you give me a link to discover or rediscover your work?

With pleasure! You can find all my creations on my website: www.sybile.net, or follow me on Instagram and Facebook.