Check out Allison Dendulk’s Artwork

Today we’d like to introduce you to Allison Dendulk.

Allison, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I took a metalsmithing class at Northern Arizona University in 2010, looking for something fun to add to my schedule, and I absolutely fell in love with it. I’ve always loved creating things with my hands, but working with metals was so much more satisfying for me than my other crafts and hobbies. NAU discontinued their metals program, and I was so bummed that I ended up dropping out of school. I got back into it in 2013 when I got connected with Heidi Abrahamson, who is an amazing jewelry artist here in Phoenix. She was gracious enough to teach me the basics of soldering and bezel setting stones, etc. After a few months of working with Heidi, I set up my own studio in my home, and Desert Dust Jewelry was born!

We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I aim to create simple and timeless jewelry for everyday wear. I enjoy picking out stones and creating pieces that I feel complement the stone(s), and let them sort of “speak for themselves.” Clean lines and simple repeating designs are what I’m most drawn to, and I prefer to leave the metal with a natural brushed finish. I’m not a fan of shiny mirror finishes on my jewelry. Inspiration is everywhere. I would say I’m most inspired by the beautiful desert we’re surrounded by here in Phoenix.

Artists face many challenges, but what do you feel is the most pressing among them?
I think maybe the biggest challenge facing artists today is getting “known” and being able to bring in enough income to keep their art alive. We pour so much of our time and energy into our work and want more than anything to be able to create our art for a living. (At least that’s what I want!) I have been so fortunate, and I am so grateful for my clients. Jewelry has been my sole source of income for over a year and a half now!

Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
I mostly sell my work online. You can find it by visiting my website, or on Facebook or Instagram. I usually do some shows in the fall and spring, and my favorites are Phoenix Flea (which is usually held twice a year in Heritage Square downtown) and Crafeteria (which is put on by the shop Frances every December.) The best way to stay up to date with me is by following me on Instagram, as that’s where I post the most often.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.desertdustjewelry.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/desertdustjewelry
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/desertdustjewelry

Image Credit:
Portait of Allison by Mo Neuharth

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.