Hébert created his first algorithmic work of art in 1974 and acquired his first pen plotter in 1978. He composes the code, or algorithm, for each drawing. He considers the computer to be a tool that enables him to focus on drawing as a conceptual activity. Hébert has stated that the creative process he uses is 'very much akin to composing or choreographing, or simply … thinking'.
In 1995, Hébert, alongside artists such as Roman Verostko, Hans Dehlinger and others, began to describe themselves as 'Algorists' - artists who employ original algorithms in the process of creating their art.
