Can you introduce yourself in a few sentences?

My name is Yizon Chen. Born in 1993 in Taipei and now based in Amsterdam. I’m a designer/goldsmith and I’m the founder of Yizon Studio. I love crafts and I’m obsessed with pretty things.

What’s your star sign?

Libra sun, Leo rising, Virgo moon

What’s your best life hack? 

Whenever I feel like I’m about to overthink or go into a negativity spiral I immediately tell myself to shut the f* up (internally) and do something to distract myself. Stop it right at the beginning.

What do you do for work? 

I run my own jewellery studio, where I make my designs, host jewellery making workshops, or create bespoke pieces. Although I feel the fun creative part is maybe 30% of the work, the rest is administration, meetings with clients, and social media. 

How did you get to where you are today?

Being a good student in design school, a lot of practice, a lot of saying yes to the unknown and a lot of trying and failing. I studied gold smithing & product design in my bachelor degree in Taiwan. Afterwards I worked part-time in a fashion jewellery brand and a high-end fine jewellery brand for 3 years. Meanwhile I was making my own collections at home and selling them on the weekend markets and trade shows. In 2019, I came to Amsterdam to study a master’s degree in fashion business, which was very helpful for starting my own brand. In 2021 I started my studio, but I had to do side jobs to support myself. Only until 2023 September I quit and work full-time for my own company.

What does living a good life mean to you?

Wake up whenever I want, having stress–free moments, having meaningful connections with friends and family, and always good food! On a deeper level, I think life would be even fuller if I could reach self-acceptance completely.

What’s something you wish you’d known 5 years ago?

I wish I’d known how hot I was (both physically and spiritually) and put myself out there a little bit more.

Who’s someone (famous)  you look up to? 

Sheena Ringo. My favourite Japanese singer. She’s not afraid to turn something ugly into beautiful, not defined by genres, and always puts out great quality art.

What’s the best life lesson you’ve learnt? 

Don’t try to fit in, try to be irreplaceable. (Mom)

What do you dream about?

I dream about a career where I can fully utilise my creativity and creative vision without fear. It’s both an external and an internal journey. Externally, it can be my own company, with clients that come to me because they love what I do and are willing to pay for it. Having a strong artistic signature and being able to create a world. Internally, it’s being so skillful and experienced that everything I touch feels very “me”. And ultimately self-acceptance. Being able to celebrate what I do instead of constant cringe and judgement.

What is one thing you recommend?

Wash hair only with water but without shampoo. In the beginning it can be a bit greasy, but after a few days your hair will adjust to it and it will be healthier and shinier than ever. 

What song would be the soundtrack to your life?

I think my life would be a beautiful dreamy indie film if “Dive” by Beach House is playing in the background.

Finally, give us a hotspot in your city, or a city you love!

I recently went to the newly renovated San Francisco Bar & Club in Amsterdam and it’s super chic. Great quality sound system and very curated vibe.