IN THE STUDIO WITH FIBER ARTIST HILA ESHEL

We first came across Hili Studio by Hila Eshel at Boutique Fair Singapore earlier this year.  While at the time we didn’t stop by to say hello (she was busy hosting a weaving workshop) we did start to follow the talented Fiber Artist on her gorgeous Instagram and we have been hooked ever since! We are thrilled that Hila took the time to chat to us to tell us a little bit more about her background and her creative business.
 

1. Hi Hila, thanks for chatting with us. Can you tell us a bit about your background? Where are you from and what brought you to Singapore?

I’m originally from Israel but have been living abroad for the most part of the last 17 years. Before coming to Singapore, we were living and working in New York. My husband Jonathan works as an Executive Creative Director for a creative design firm, and his company relocated us to Singapore six years ago. We have two boys, 6 and 10 years olds.

I have always been into art and design. I studied some photography, fashion design, and I have a degree in Culinary Arts. Cooking has always been one of my greatest passions. I had to leave the commercial kitchen when I became a Mom. The work was simply too demanding.

After living in Singapore as a stay-at-home Mom for four years, I felt it was time to leave my comfort zone, and take a year to explore new possibilities. I did a variety of workshops, and weaving stole my heart right away. This is how Hili Studio came to life.

 

2. How old were you when you started weaving and how did you learn the craft?

I only started weaving after turning 40. I took a weaving workshop at Bloesem Studio with Natalie Miller. I fell in love with the craft and decided to continue and explore. It was a long and exciting process of self-learning with books and online. I think that weaving can be very forgiving. I love the endless possibilities, and that sometimes little mistakes can take you to a completely new place.

 

3. Can you tell us a bit about your artistic style?

I try to keep things simple, and with each piece transfer a calm feeling. I always find myself more attracted to muted and sophisticated colour tones. I don’t want my wall art to take over a room, but rather complement and enrich the space.

I love searching for the most amazing materials and strive to tell a richer story by using mixed media in my fiber art. I believe this is part of what makes my pieces own-able and unique. I like to think that I put something from myself in every piece I create.

 

4. What inspired you to start your own weaving business and how did Hili Studio come about?

I felt a need to create again and I wanted the freedom to create what I love. One of the things that empowered me the most was the support and positive feedback I received from friends and family. Their enthusiasm and excitement about my early creations convinced me that I was on the right track. I did not have a clear business plan when I started, I just kept creating and it happened naturally.

Weaving and design have given me the work-life balance that I have been looking for. I knew I didn’t want to take a full-time job. I like being there when the boys come home from school. Of course, I take a double shot of espresso before they arrive 🙂

 

5. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when you first started your creative business and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge is definitely time. Once you start a solo business, there is less time to explore new styles, as there are so many other things to take care of – branding, customer relations, marketing, admin, website, orders, etc. This is simply a reality that you have to deal with and things just take longer.

Working alone has also been a challenge. It would have been nice to have a partner. Thankfully, I have had the support of Jonathan and my friends all along the way, and I still do.

 

 

6. You’re not only a successful creative entrepreneur but also a busy mum. How do you balance running your own business with family life?

It took time for everyone to adjust to me having much less time, but I think we’re getting there. The boys are super proud of me for following my passion. They are part of the journey as they saw me start something new, and accomplish what I set out to do.

 

7. Are there any tools you use for your business that you couldn’t live without?

I couldn’t live without my wooden frame loom. Also… well, he is isn’t a tool but I couldn’t do it without Jonathan. He did my branding and he basically helps with everything, except for the actual creation of the art.

 

8. How important is the online world for your creative business?

I think it would be nearly impossible for me to do business without the online environment. Of course, there are fairs and pop-ups, which are great for exposure – but I do most of my business online. Instagram is my main tool to showcase my work and communicate with customers.

 

9. Is there any advice you can give to aspiring artists looking to create their own handmade businesses?

Do something that you love. Even then, it won’t always be easy but if you have a true passion for your craft, it will keep you going and help you cope with any challenge.

 

10. We love shining the spotlight on inspiring women like yourself, can you tell us about another female creative entrepreneur in your community who inspires you?

I am so lucky to be surrounded by creative people. Irene Hoof, the founder of Bloesem Studio and KOEL magazine had a big influence on me. We did some collaborations together, and thanks to her believing in me, I started to teach weaving. Doing workshops is actually my favourite part in Hili Studio. I get to meet lovely women and teach them a new skill. It is so rewarding and fun.

I am also inspired by my close friends Lisa Beazley and Emily Taberner. Both started something in Singapore after being stay-at-home Moms for a few years. Lisa published her awesome first novel “Keep me Posted” last year, and is now working on her second one. Emily started Cuckoo Little Lifestyle Store where she curates a magical collection for little ones, and she also does the most amazing interior styling.

 

Check out Hili Studio and please show your support!

www.hilistudio.com
www.instagram.com/hilistudio
www.pinterest.com/hilaavivi

 

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