We recently had the chance to connect with Daphna Sebbane and have shared our conversation below.
Daphna, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
For me, it would be imposter syndrome. I think a lot of designers and artists, no matter how long they’ve been in the industry or how much they’ve accomplished, struggle with this feeling that they’re not “enough” or that at some point someone’s going to find out they don’t really know what they’re doing. It’s not something people openly talk about, but it’s there in the background.
Even when you’re proud of the work you’ve created, there can be this quiet voice telling you it’s not good enough, or that you just got “lucky.” I’ve learned over time that most of us feel this way at some point, and that being vulnerable and open about it actually creates connection.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Daphna Sebbane, a designer and illustrator based in Austin, Texas. My work blends old-school tattoo aesthetics, mysticism, and vintage rock-and-roll energy into bold, eye-catching designs. Over the years I’ve had the chance to creating everything from merch for band’s national tours, to beer labels, menus, bandanas, and apparel.
What makes my brand unique is that it’s rooted in storytelling and symbolism. Whether it’s a snake, a third eye, skulls or flowers , I love weaving layers of meaning into my work so it resonates with people on a deeper level. I’m also very hands-on with production, thinking through how a design will actually translate to screen printing, for prints and shirts.
Right now, I’m working on a mix of client collaborations with bands, retail, brands, and local businesses, while also growing my own shop where I release stickers, apparel, and prints that carry my signature style. At the heart of it all, my brand is about celebrating creativity, rebellion, and connection through art.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Bonds between people often break and when pride overshadows compassion. What restores them is usually much simpler like small, intentional gestures that remind us of our connection. Whether it’s an honest apology, or the act of reaching out to someone you haven’t talked to in awhile, those moments rebuild trust and remind us that we’re not alone.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could tell my younger self one kind thing, it would be: you don’t have to have it all figured out right away. Growth takes time, and the path doesn’t have to be straight for it to be meaningful.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Authenticity is the cultural value I protect at all cost, especially in my work. My designs pull from old school tattoo traditions, mysticism, and punk aesthetics, and I’ve learned that staying true to those influences—rather than chasing trends—is what makes the work resonate.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel at peace when I’m creating and in the moments after the work is finished: watching a stack of new prints come in, seeing people wear a design I made, or trading stories with other creatives. Those small, ordinary rituals remind me why I do this work and keep me grounded.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://daphnasebbane.mybigcommerce.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daphnasebbane
Image Credits
Daphna Sebbane
