Inspired by traditional Indian art, Hebbar fused Western techniques with his paintings, creating a unique and distinctive style. For Hebbar, painting was about staying true to his original self, a principle that he strived to reflect in his works. Besides his paintings, Hebbar was also celebrated for his rhythmic line drawings and illustrations. His contributions to the field of art earned him prestigious honors from the Government of India: the Padma Shri in 1961 and the Padma Bhushan in 1989.

After completing his matriculation at the age of twenty-one, Hebbar began his art education at Chamarajendra Technical Institute in Mysore. However, he soon grew weary of the monotonous environment and left the school. He then started working for a photographer in Udupi, who, impressed by Hebbar’s work, advised him to pursue art studies in Bombay. Taking this advice, Hebbar moved to Mumbai in 1933 and enrolled at Nutan Kala Mandir, an art school founded by G. S. Dandavatimath.