26.09.2025

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

Sculptor Johannes Hepp talks about his craft, his cap of choice and his seven new sculptures that celebrate Stetson’s 160th anniversary

Using a chainsaw, a chisel and other tools, 38-year-old German sculptor Johannes Hepp infuses human emotion into blocks of linden woodone chip at a time—to create human forms that, while not necessarily photorealistic, appear shockingly lifelike. Now, he’s bringing the Stetson lifestyle to life with this anniversary collection.

What draws you to working with wood?

I love wood as a material because you can work with it relatively quickly and it still hascertain resistance. Also, it’s renewable, I can heat with the leftovers and, of course, it smells very good.

Do you have a favorite wood?

I use different woods such as oak, cherry, cedar or poplar, but for me, the most beautiful to carve is linden wood, which I used for this project with Stetson. Even in the Middle Ages, figures were mostly carved from linden wood. It is beautifully soft, rarely tears and has a very beautiful color. It also has hardly any grain, which I like.

What was your idea behind the seven pieces you created for Stetson’s 160th anniversary?

The idea was to carve a figure that captured the lifestyle of each Stetson hat. Under each real Stetson, there is a small figure that could wear the hat. Also, the hat's size almost turns it into a home, or at least a shelter for the figures. I always see my Stetson hats as a kind of roof. They definitely offer me protectionThe figures themselves appear so animated, one half expects them to open their mouths and speak. Perhaps not the cowboy. He looks like the strong, silent type. It is always a challenge to give the figures a soul and something of their own. Sometimes I keep picking them up and working on them until I am satisfied.

You mentioned your Stetson, what’s your preferred hat?

I’m definitely a fan of the trucker cap. I love the quality and the style. Do you wear it in the studio? That’s a pretty big chainsaw over there[Laughing] Yes, safety glasses and above all my Stetson cap. The visor helps to keep a clear line of sight from all of the falling chips.

www.johanneshepp.com

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Rough edges. Refined style. The Docker cap stands out by staying minimal.
#stetsoneurope #stetson

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Some moments call for something a little more unique.
These limited items were made to celebrate 160 years of Stetson – and they currently hold a special place in our store.
📍Münzstraße 21, 10178 Berlin Germany

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Say Hi to our newest member in Amsterdam - our new store manager Hans!
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📍Oude Hoogstraat 10, 1012 CE Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Last night, we shared a touch of the American West with Berlin. Gathering friends, partners and Western style enthusiasts to celebrate our 160th anniversary and the launch of Stetson American Icon. The Stetson Store Berlin set the stage for this memorable evening and a unique highlight: personalized portraits by a live illustrator capturing the spirit of the night.
#stetson160 #stetson #stetsoneurope

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Alex is showing you one way to wear our exclusive 160 Years Hatteras Cashmere - crafted from uniquely soft Loro Piana Cashmere for a timeless and luxurious feel.
Model: @alexrudolpho #stetson160 #stetsoneurope

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Seven characters. Seven hats. One timeless connection between identity and style.
Created by: @johannes_hepp 
#stetson #stetsoneurope #anniversary

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