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Vassili Tselebidis

BelgiumJewelry

Interviews with Vassili Tselebidis

Read the interviews with Vassili Tselebidis: understand their philosophy, creative process and award-winning work.

Designer Profile

Designer of the Day Interview

12 questions

In between my studies in space and visual arts in Brussels, I started to develop my artistic world. I fully committed to it when I was selected by Pascaline Smets to be featured at the Smets Young Talents 2015.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

In between my studies in space and visual arts in Brussels, I started to develop my artistic world. I fully committed to it when I was selected by Pascaline Smets to be featured at the Smets Young Talents 2015. During this event that promotes young designers, I presented my first graphic designs and I decided to materialize three of them through fine jewelry. My work then attracted the attention of the plastic arts department of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation and thanks to the prototyping aid that has been granted to me, I was able to produce the prototypes of my first collection in the course of 2018. In the meantime, I continue to work as a freelance graphic designer on visual identities or artistic directions, among other things, for various projects in the food industry or sales for example.

How did you become a designer?

I’ve always wanted to do something in the creative field. As long as I remember, I’ve always been a creative soul. I’ve been raised by women and surrounded by them since I was a child. This family setting naturally contributed to the person I became. It goes to say that my education and my family history have allowed me to develop my sensitivity, open-mindedness, and my inspiration. Unfortunately, like many children around the world, we are pressured by our creators to respect what they have envisioned for us. I began to consider my desires when I decided to live my true self and stop hiding behind cultural or religious beliefs. My desire for creativity was more precisely born of admiration for my mother. She was an independent, enterprising, elegant, and sophisticated woman but life got her on many levels. During her early years, she was active in the jewelry industry. I took great pleasure in contemplating her beautiful silhouettes and jewels that only kept my imagination going.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

I don't have a particular style, I have a sense of taste in general. Whether it is good or bad, it is eclectic above all. As a multidisciplinary artist, it is important to have a sense of control over my work, to articulate my creativity around a focal point, this is why I have always wanted to create an intriguing and timeless emblem that animates me. It will always be part of my designs and decline it, is the game I play throughout my creative process. It is a permanent turning point to me and it is the most important instrument that allows me to keep a guideline and a common thread through the eclecticism of my ideas. It is a sign of symbolic value for me whose originality lies in its spiritual nature. This triptych is the source and unity in my creative process.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

I feel all kinds of emotions. It goes from frustration to satisfaction and all of the above. I feel the most comfortable to design when the night comes because it slows down time. I feel alone and in charge. I let my imagination envision and worry about nothing else but being creative. There’s always room for improvements and adjustments in a second phase. Designing fulfill my needs of creativity. It makes me rethink everything that surrounds me, anywhere, and anytime. I get myself stuck in a mind game that can be challenging sometimes, of course, but that brings me so much fulfillment at the end of the journey because I feel on top of the world and like everything is possible. It always seems impossible until it’s done. I believe Nelson Mandela said that.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

As a first step, to make my first collection available on the market. The short-term goal is to launch new designs that will be compatible with the current pieces. The number of combinations and the freedom of creation will, therefore, be increased. The second goal will be to complete the first collection with necklaces, bangles, and earrings while remaining the spirit of the original concept. The most successful designs will continue to be declined to offer some new combinations to the customers. Mainly thanks to new gold alloys: such as blue, black, green, or purple gold. Some new cut or cabochon gems, such as sapphire, ruby, emerald, opal, lapis-lazuli or malachite will be added as well. In terms of creative direction, it will be essential to diversify myself by continuing to develop the concept of interlocking but also, by presenting new collections independent from it but always based on the emblem. In the long run, I also have the ambition to diversify my brand's product portfolio, from clothes to leather goods to footwear. I believe greek philosopher, Heraclitus, quoted that big results require big ambitions.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

How can you not keep up with trends anyway, we are submerged by visuals and non-stop information. I don't mind following trends and if I choose to, I'll play the game by my rules anyhow. It really depends on what you're seeking. If you are looking for immediate success and easy money, you just need to follow the trends and you know that your product will sell by itself. But my goal as a creative soul is to think out of the box, to be different and original, and potentially, success will come along and be part of my legacy. Inspiration may come from anything. An emotion, an encounter, or even some dust on a shiny cosmetic jar that inspires you a pattern for example. As a designer, you pay attention to everything and especially to tiny little details that most people won't see. Everything around us can be potentially inspiring thus possibilities are endless.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

I focus on the originality and details of the overall design. I do ask myself “Is this déjà-vu?” Then I pay attention to the quality of materials and production. Good design for me is well-thought and manufactured and will last over time. Of course, it costs a dime but it’s an investment. I have always preferred to own less but better.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

Whenever it is as perfect as it can be but I do not think it is possible to cover everything in one product. Design is made of concessions. There is always a time when as a designer, you will prioritize beauty over practicality or vice versa for example. But I will never concede on quality. If I had to choose for whatever reason, I would prefer to simplify my design than to choose poor materials to keep my design unaltered. I am my biggest critic and first customer. In my opinion, details have a very important place and nothing should be left to chance. I wear any prototype of any product I design so I do revise everything. As for success, I think there’s no clue for it. The real success for me is to last in time and to achieve this goal, risks have to be taken and consequently, success comes and goes.

What is your biggest design work?

My current collection, Interlock. I designed and conceptualize this project to arouse, among customers, the desire to create and give them the occasion to express their creativity. Every design has been imagined in several parts that can be worn independently or combined in many possible ways. I want to share, through my label and designs, an approach that makes sense. I aspire to shake up certain rules by proposing creations that are at once playful, opulent as well as refined and will provide some freedom to the women and men who will wear them.

As individuals, we are somehow unsettled because we are made of feelings. The way we present ourselves, and accordingly the story we want to tell, changes at a given point in time. It is the perception I try to express through this concept of interlocking: everyone can reappropriate their piece of jewelry by deciding according to their desire, to assemble it or not. Thanks to this concept of interlocking, everyone is given the opportunity to conceive a piece of jewelry according to their taste and with the balance they desire by choosing from a range of gold alloys and gemstones. I wanted to provide a plurality of styles through this concept of interlocking and thus the final look that changes consequently if several pieces are combined or not. It goes from opulent and eye-catchy, if the client combines some rings of different gold alloys and all set with brilliant-cut diamonds and semi-precious stones, to more minimalistic by wearing just a ring or two in solid gold.

Over time, the piece of jewelry owned by a customer may evolve alongside him or her thanks to this concept of interlocking. Clients can decide to acquire new rings that are compatible with the pieces they already possess. And even if the consumer decides not to, he or she knows that this is always an option to add a new acquisition to the one they already have and make something new out of it. All the designs will be sold separately and accordingly available to a wide range of prices depending on the chosen design. It is thus somehow budget-friendly. Of course, a piece of fine jewelry is not cheap but it is an investment in the long term. So for those who do not have deep pockets but want to have access to nice things, this can be possible. So be aware that if you are attracted to a combination with several rings, you can get it at your own pace.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

Design is my lifestyle. I style my life in its every aspect and I envision every single detail of it. Design is part of my daily routine on many levels. Music has also an important place in my daily life. All kinds of music. Whether to celebrate a goal I've achieved, to find inspiration, or to comfort myself in a moment of sadness. I was born and raised in Brussels and this is where I live but I don’t feel like the cultural heritage of Belgium hasn’t affected or inspired my designs. My Greek heritage as affected me and still does much more because there’s nostalgia linked to it. Greece is in my heart. Even if I wasn't born there, it's the country of my origins. I will always cherish the Greek lifestyle. Among the great civilizations that have marked history, ancient Greece remains one the most remarkable and thus most inspiring. In art, politics, literature, philosophy, or science, its legacy still influences our world. Greek civilization invented almost everything.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

As an emerging designer myself, I can’t do much right now to help others in the design field. Of course, I have some ideas on how to give back but these projects will only be possible when I will have something beneficial for others to bring on the table. What I can tell right now by my experience is that there are not sufficient platforms that help young designers in their early stages. Most of the fashion or design competitions have too many conditions and restrictions to be able to participate when there are plenty of great talents around the corner who don’t have any background, experience, or available collections on the market and need to be surrounded to achieve all of the above. Regarding any philanthropic contribution to society, I have planned to submit a design for an exclusive capsule collection. This initiative is directly inspired by the current sanitary crisis and the entire proceeds will be donated to charity. Wish me luck.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A' Design Award?

It's a beautiful thing when someone's career and passion come together and I work on making a business out of my talent for several years now. I have been blessed with meaningful encounters and opportunities throughout my journey that have comforted me in the fact that I have actually something to do in this industry and the A’ Design Award & Competition may help me to reach the next level. As I didn’t evolve in the field I want to grow in, I need to expand my network and find the right investors and collaborators. A competition like the A 'Design Award is, therefore, an excellent move to remedy my lack of visibility.

Design Interview

Interlock Rings · 14 questions

To arouse, among customers, the desire to create and give them the occasion to express their creativity. To offer everyone a real opportunity to take part in the creative process by choosing from a range of gold alloys…

What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?

To arouse, among customers, the desire to create and give them the occasion to express their creativity. To offer everyone a real opportunity to take part in the creative process by choosing from a range of gold alloys and gemstones in order to materialize their piece of jewelry. I want to share, through my label and designs, an approach that makes sense. I aspire to shake up certain rules by proposing creations that are at once playful, opulent as well as refined and will provide some freedom to the women and men who will wear them.

What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?

The evolving part of my first collection. It means that the piece of jewelry owned by a customer may evolve alongside him or her thanks to this concept of interlocking. Over time, clients can decide to acquire new rings that are compatible with the pieces they already possess. And even if the consumer decides not to, he or she knows that this is always an option to add a new acquisition to the one they already have and make something new out of it. All the designs will be sold separately and accordingly available to a wide range of prices depending on the chosen design. It is thus somehow budget-friendly. Of course, a piece of fine jewelry is not cheap but it is an investment in the long term. So for those who do not have deep pockets but want to have access to nice things, this can be possible. So be aware that if you are attracted to a combination with several rings, you can get it at your own pace.

What are your future plans for this award winning design?

As a first step, to make my first collection available on the market. Then, the short-term goal is to launch new designs that will be compatible with the current pieces. The number of combinations and the freedom of creation will, therefore, be increased. The second goal will be to complete the first collection with necklaces, bangles, and earrings while remaining the spirit of the original concept. The most successful designs will continue to be declined to offer some new combinations to the customers. Mainly thanks to new gold alloys: such as blue, black, green, or purple gold. Some new cut or cabochon gems, such as sapphire, ruby, emerald, opal, lapis-lazuli or malachite will be added as well.

How long did it take you to design this particular concept?

This concept has always been part of my life somehow because I never left any of my toys intact in my childhood. I have always enjoyed to modify, add, or subtract things together. And this is even more interesting to do with sharp geometric shapes because you never know what you are going to end up with, it’s all about abstraction. It became even more obvious for me when I was designing my logotype a few years ago that as a multidisciplinary artist, it is important to have a sense of control over my work, to articulate my creativity around a focal point.

Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?

As individuals, we are somehow unsettled because we are made of feelings. The way we present ourselves, and accordingly the story we want to tell, changes at a given point in time. It is the perception I try to express through this concept of interlocking: everyone can reappropriate their piece of jewelry by deciding according to their desire, to assemble it or not.

What made you design this particular type of work?

A jewel is more than just an ornament. It is a real way to express one's creativity and a way for all to assert one's individuality. Moreover, it is usually passed down from generation to generation and only the immutable materials allow us to translate in time the strong moments of life. Fashion is playful and everyone should express their uniqueness. A piece of jewelry is thus part of a set of details that brings a silhouette to life.

Who is the target customer for his design?

The products are dedicated to creative and independent souls. They are women and men who want to stand out by expressing their style. They fell for a brand because of its quality, its universe, and the values that they share. Sensitive to art and originality, they know the luxury market and they master the art of mixing designer pieces with emerging brands. These profiles are "investors", especially enthusiastic of watches and jewelry. According to the latest data, the majority (40%) of the people targeted by the brand are men and women between 25 and 34 years old. But of course, nothing is set in stone.

How did you come up with the name for this design? What does it mean?

The entire collection is named Interlock whose meaning is directly perceptible contrary to its synonyms as nesting or imbrication. We can define the word as, two or more things that engage with each other so they are linked with one another but either part can be operated independently. The collection is made of three lines at the moment and the overall look inspired me their respective names which are Triada, Tomos, and Stemma whose origin is Greek. These successively mean Trinity which is the three persons of the Christian Godhead; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit or more broadly, a group of three people or things, a volume which is a book forming part of a work or series, and a crown which is a circular ornamental headdress worn by a monarch as a symbol of authority, usually made of or decorated with precious metals and gemstones.

Which design tools did you use when you were working on this project?

A pencil and a piece of paper are the easiest things to grab, to begin with. Thanks to my graphic skills, I do sometimes translate my sketches into a digital file on my computer because I want to make sure that my ideas are properly assimilated during production and that there is no room for interpretation. But my main tool is my emblem. I do refer to it constantly while designing. It is a permanent turning point to me and it is the most important instrument that allows me to keep a guideline and a common thread through the eclecticism of my ideas. It is a sign of symbolic value for me whose originality lies in its spiritual nature. This triptych is the source and unity in my creative process.

What is the most unique aspect of your design?

The concept within the collection. Every design has been imagined in several parts that can be worn independently or combined in many possible ways. Thanks to this concept of interlocking, everyone is given the opportunity to conceive a piece of jewelry according to their taste and with the balance they desire. By assembling several creations everybody is thus able to create the jewel that suits them best.

Who did you collaborate with for this design? Did you work with people with technical / specialized skills?

I did work with several goldsmiths for the prototypes of my designs. I admire the craftsmanship of mastered artisans and I think they are the core of the design. A piece of fine jewelry is the association between the designer's creative mind and the goldsmith's expertise. A know-how that will magnify the design but that will be also honored by it. Through my brand, I want to share my belief in high-end craftsmanship.

What is the role of technology in this particular design?

Every design has been converted into a digital file using 3D software. The digital file is then used to print a burn-out resin model. This particular point is very important because of the geometric shape of the rings and the fact that they are intended to be connected. This step defines the rest of the production process and is made all over again for every piece that will be hand-finished by a goldsmith.

What are some of the challenges you faced during the design/realization of your concept?

First of all, to be able to provide a plurality of styles through this concept of interlocking and thus the final look that changes consequently if several pieces are combined or not. It goes from opulent and eye-catchy, if the client combines some rings of different gold alloys and all set with brilliant-cut diamonds and semi-precious stones, to more minimalistic by wearing just a ring or two in solid gold. In a second time, the overall comfort if multiple rings are actually mixed.

How did you decide to submit your design to an international design competition?

I decided to do so as a last attempt and it paid off. I work on making a business out of my talent for several years now. I have been blessed with meaningful encounters and opportunities throughout my journey that have comforted me in the fact that I actually have something to do in this industry but I now need to reach the next level.

Design Legend Interview

30 questions

In between my studies in space and visual arts in Brussels, I started to develop my artistic world. I fully committed to it when I was selected by Pascaline Smets to be featured at the Smets Young Talents 2015.

Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

In between my studies in space and visual arts in Brussels, I started to develop my artistic world. I fully committed to it when I was selected by Pascaline Smets to be featured at the Smets Young Talents 2015. During this event that promotes young designers, I presented my first graphic designs and I decided to materialize three of them through fine jewelry. My work then attracted the attention of the plastic arts department of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation and thanks to the prototyping aid that has been granted to me, I was able to produce the prototypes of my first collection in the course of 2018.

What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

I became a designer to fulfill my needs of creativity and I am motivated by the opportunity to bring emotions into people's lives.

What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

I am focusing on fine jewelry at the moment which is an art that I particularly admire. I wish to continue developing the concept of my first fine jewelry collection but also, to present new collections independent from it but always based on my emblem.

What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

I focus on the originality and details of the overall design. I do ask myself “Is this déjà-vu?” Then I pay attention to the quality of materials and production.

What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

The longevity of it. A well-thought and manufactured product will last over time. Of course, it costs a dime but it’s an investment. I have always preferred to own less but better.

What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

Jewelry for my mother because I have always known her bejeweled. I know that she will feel so proud to own my designs. I would love also to jewel Céline Dion. I love everything about her character, path, and music of course. Tell her I have all the time she wants.

What is the dream project you haven't yet had time to realize?

A short fashion film inspired by my mother’s life which will highlight a bunch of my designs. I have already written the scenario but I need some coins to put it all together and pay all the talents I'd like to work with.

What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

I love anything Victoire de Castellane. I think her designs are bold and different.

What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

My current designs. The main aspects of this collection that makes me think it’s great are the concept of interlocking and the evolvement of the pieces. Every design has been imagined in several parts that can be worn independently or combined in many possible ways. Thanks to this concept of interlocking, everyone is given the opportunity to conceive a piece of jewelry according to their taste and with the balance they desire. Over time, clients can decide to acquire new rings that are compatible with the pieces they already possess. And even if the consumer decides not to, he or she knows that this is always an option to add a new acquisition to the one they already have and make something new out of it.

If you hadn't become a designer, what would you have done?

I would have probably continued to work as a graphic designer in an agency. But am I already a designer? I am wondering now.

How do you define design, what is design for you?

Design is a lifestyle for me. I style my life in its every aspect and I envision every single detail of it. Design is part of my daily routine on many levels.

Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

I have met a few supporters during my path. Some of them have supported me financially others emotionally. I hope to be able to pay them my gratitude when I will indeed reach a high level.

What's your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

I have the ambition to diversify my brand's product portfolio in the future, from clothes to leather goods to footwear. I believe greek philosopher, Heraclitus, quoted that big results require big ambitions.

What's your ultimate goal as a designer?

Longevity. The real success for me is to last in time and to achieve this goal, risks have to be taken and consequently, success comes and goes.

What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

A versatile leather bag for a friend of mine. I can tell no more because she might be reading it and it is a surprise. Hush.

What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

To be more concerned in general. Now that the world is facing an unprecedented crisis, we all start to understand that it is time to slow down and make things the right way. We have to educate each other to understand that good design takes time and be more considerate to those around us and what surrounds us.

Where do you think the design field is headed next?

I think the design field is becoming more aware of the needs of its creativity. It takes time to design and conceptualize. We think that we have to perpetually put things on the market to be relevant. But it doesn’t make sense anymore because there are too many things happening in a short amount of time. The future is now and we are already experiencing changes. I think of Jean-Paul Gaultier who has decided to follow an upcycling approach of Haute Couture or Saint Laurent who has announced that they will evolve at their own pace from now on. The frenetic speed that these powerhouses were somehow obliged to respect was not durable and now Mother Nature reminds us of that in some way. There was too much pressure for too many years and it affected us all.

When you have a new design project, where do you start?

I start by making some research on what is already on the market and I try to go in the opposite direction.

What is your life motto as a designer?

“Every artist was first an amateur” by American poet Ralph Waldo Emerson.

Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

The good old “chicken or egg” paradox. People got crazy by trying to resolve this question. Leave me alone, I have already enough obsessions as it is. Laughing out loud. I think it’s a perpetual renewal and it goes both ways. Whatever way you choose, play the game by your rules.

What is the role of technology when you design?

Thanks to my graphic skills, I do sometimes translate my sketches into a digital file on my computer because I want to make sure that my ideas are properly assimilated during production and that there is no room for interpretation. Especially, when it comes to jewelry, technology has nowadays a big role as every design is converted into a digital file using 3D software. The digital file is then used to print a burn-out resin model. This particular point is very important because of the geometric shape of my designs and the fact that they are intended to be connected. This step defines the rest of the production process and is made all over again for every piece that will be hand-finished by a goldsmith.

What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

Adobe Creative Suite.

What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

Storytelling. In my opinion, details have a very important place and nothing should be left to chance. I feel like writing a scenario while designing but there’s no end to it because every design comes with multiple stories as it is intended to be handled by a variety of profiles.

When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

Damn, I should have thought of it.

Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

Anything Fashionary or Taschen.

Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

Jean-Paul Gaultier. There’s always a twist to anything he does, from elegant to camp. Plus he seems funny so I guess we would have a great time together.

What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

I find blue prestigious, elegant, and bright at the same time. Anything bluish makes me happy. My favorite place to be is Greece because it is in my heart. Even if I wasn't born there, it's the country of my origins. An iced coffee or a glass of wine with a cigarette alongside my family, friends, and facing the sea. I will always cherish the Greek lifestyle and food as well. I also have a soft spot for sushi. Don’t judge me, it is so cliché I know. My favorite season would be winter because it allows you to wear so many different pieces and mix a wide range of accessories and materials. A piece of jewelry is my absolute favorite thing of course. I could stare at it for hours and as my favorite brand… At the moment, I would probably say Berluti because creative director, Kris Van Assche, has really zhuzhed it up.

Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

I wear what I design so I find it funny to see the expression of people’s faces every time they understand that I designed it.

What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

All kinds of music. Whether to celebrate a goal I've achieved, to find inspiration, or to comfort myself in a moment of sadness, music has an important place in my daily life.

When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

I know nothing about being a great designer, I just know that I’ve always wanted to do something in the creative field. As long as I remember, I’ve always been a creative soul. Unfortunately, like many children around the world, we are pressured by our creators to respect what they have envisioned for us. I began to consider my desires when I decided to live my true self and stop hiding behind cultural or religious beliefs.

Designer Interview

24 questions

I’ve always wanted to do something in the creative field. As long as I remember, I’ve always been a creative soul.

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?

I’ve always wanted to do something in the creative field. As long as I remember, I’ve always been a creative soul. Unfortunately, like many children around the world, we are pressured by our creators to respect what they have envisioned for us. I began to consider my desires when I decided to live my true self and stop hiding behind cultural or religious beliefs. And I fully committed to it when I was selected by Pascaline Smets to be featured at the Smets Young Talents 2015. During this event that promotes young designers, I presented my first graphic designs and I decided to materialize three of them through fine jewelry. My work then attracted the attention of the plastic arts department of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation and thanks to the prototyping aid that has been granted to me, I was able to produce the prototypes of my first collection in the course of 2018.

What is "design" for you?

Design is a lifestyle for me. I style my life in its every aspect and I envision every single detail of it. Design is part of my daily routine on many levels.

What kinds of works do you like designing most?

Everything from jewelry to leather goods to furniture. And it goes on.

What was the first thing you designed for a company?

A removable display unit for a well-known commercial mall in Brussels.

What is your favorite material / platform / technology?

Gold alloys. These are a reflection of sumptuousness and generosity, but also prosperity. A piece of fine jewelry has usually a strong symbolic significance and can be a testimony to life's highlights. I attach great importance to materials in general.

When do you feel the most creative?

There is no specific time really because as a creative soul you have to keep on giving but I have to say that I feel the most comfortable and creative when the night comes because it slows down time. I feel alone and in charge.

Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?

As a first step, the original aspect of my design. I often ask myself “Am I bringing something new on the table?” Afterward, I focus on practicality and quality. I want to create products that will be part of people's lives for quite some time.

What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?

I feel all kinds of emotions. It goes from frustration to satisfaction and all of the above.

What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?

I feel on top of the world and like everything is possible. It always seems impossible until it’s done. I believe Nelson Mandela said that.

What makes a design successful?

I think there’s no clue for success. As a creative soul, you just try to think out of the box, to be different and original, and potentially, success will come along and be part of your legacy.

When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?

The originality of the overall design and attention to detail. I do ask myself “Is this déjà-vu?”

From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?

To be more concerned in general. Now that the world is facing an unprecedented crisis, we all start to understand that it is time to slow down and make things the right way. We have to educate each other to understand that good design takes time and be more considerate to those around us and what surrounds us.

How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?

I think the design field is becoming more aware of the needs of its creativity. It takes time to design and conceptualize. We think that we have to perpetually put things on the market to be relevant. But it doesn’t make sense anymore because there are too many things happening in a short amount of time. The future is now and we are already experiencing changes. I think of Jean-Paul Gaultier who has decided to follow an upcycling approach of Haute Couture or Saint Laurent who has announced that they will evolve at their own pace from now on. The frenetic speed that these powerhouses were somehow obliged to respect was not durable and now Mother Nature reminds us of that in some way. There was too much pressure for too many years and it affected us all.

Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?

Usually, designers say that they are inspired by everything that surrounds them. I find it very cliché to say but that is the truth. Inspiration may come from anything. An emotion, an encounter, or even some dust on a shiny cosmetic jar that inspires you a pattern for example. As a designer, you pay attention to everything and especially to tiny little details that most of the people won’t see.

How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?

I don't have a particular style, I have a sense of taste in general. Whether it is good or bad, it is eclectic above all. Through Ambroise Vassili, I would like to express different styles and their aesthetics. I do not aspire to find a signature silhouette but more of a set of details that signs my silhouette. Fine jewelry was for me the best way to do so.

Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?

I live in Brussels. I won’t say that the cultural heritage of Belgium affects or inspires my designs. Even though I was born and raised in Brussels, my Greek heritage as affected me and still does much more because there’s nostalgia linked to it.

What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?

These are objects that were gifted to me or belonged to people dear to my heart. If I had to list five of them I would say; a framed collage artwork gifted to me for my birthday, a vintage Omega watch in yellow gold and stainless steel, a yellow gold signet ring set with an emerald-cut sapphire and brilliant-cut diamonds, a balmacaan overcoat made of virgin wool and camel hair and an elephant-shaped wooden sculpture.

From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?

The most positive aspect of being a creative soul is that it makes you rethink everything that surrounds you, anywhere and anytime. You get yourself stuck in a mind game that can be challenging sometimes, of course, but that brings you so much fulfillment at the end of the journey. As for a negative aspect, I would say that it is indeed time-consuming. It's a beautiful thing when someone's career and passion come together but many sacrifices have to be taken in order to accomplish that.

What is your "golden rule" in design?

To let my imagination envision and worry about nothing else but being creative. There’s always room for improvements and adjustments in a second phase.

Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?

I have been single for five years, I guess I can’t manage my time. Jokes aside. I try not to pack a whole lot in one day, to schedule and prioritize even though it can be challenging sometimes. I try not to be too harsh on myself because design takes time anyway. But if I have to and it happened more than once, I won't hesitate to burn the midnight oil.

What are your future plans? What is next for you?

First of all, the next step for me is to make a business out of my talent. And to do that I need to expand my network and find the right investors and collaborators. Then, the short-term goal is to launch new designs that will be compatible with the current pieces. The number of combinations and the freedom of creation will, therefore, be increased. The second goal will be to complete the first collection with necklaces, bangles, and earrings while remaining the spirit of the original concept. The most successful designs will continue to be declined to offer some new combinations to the customers. Mainly thanks to new gold alloys: such as blue, black, green, or purple gold. Some new cut or cabochon gems, such as sapphire, ruby, emerald, opal, lapis-lazuli or malachite will be added as well. In terms of creative direction, it will be essential to diversify myself by continuing to develop the concept of interlocking but also, by presenting new collections independent from it but always based on the emblem. In the long run, I also have the ambition to diversify my brand's product portfolio.

Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?

I develop my designs myself but I would love to collaborate more. I am very human-oriented. I like to share experiences, build memories, and learn from others.

Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?

Leather goods. I am self-taught in leather craft and being able to materialize my designs by myself is very satisfying. It is the only way to understand and appreciate the work and know-how of craftsmanship. When you are creative and qualified nothing can stop you, you can rule the world.

How can people contact you?

People can reach out to me by email at hello@ambroisevassili.com and I’ll be happy to answer.

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The design interview data shown in our design interview page with Vassili Tselebidis regarding Interlock Rings comes from the Design Interviews platform, where leading designers, architects and brands are interviewed regarding their award-winning designs, products and projects.