Conversations with Amber Dennison

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Dennison

Hi Amber, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been a creative at heart, and I’ve played around with different art mediums over the years, even illustrating a Children’s book I self-published.

Before I moved to Phoenix, I started creating textured art as a way to make some extra money. But after our move to Phoenix, I began painting more for myself as an emotional outlet, often using canvases I found at Goodwill to keep costs low.

One day, I decided to share a piece I had created, and the response was overwhelming—I got a ton of messages about it. That piece sold quickly, and it gave me the confidence to make another, which led to my first commission. From there, I sold a few more pieces, and people started encouraging me to take it further.

That’s when I decided to start my Instagram page, which opened up even more opportunities. By the end of the year, I had participated in two markets, completed five commissions, and had my work featured at Thrive Coworking For Women and The Plant Mill. It’s been a whirlwind, but every step has been so rewarding.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Imposter syndrome is something I’ve had to wrestle with, especially during those times when things are going really well. There’s always that little voice in the back of my mind questioning if I deserve the opportunities or recognition I’ve received.

Another big hurdle for me was putting myself out there on social media. The fear of being seen and judged was a tough one to overcome. It took a lot of self-reflection to realize that sharing my work and my journey was a necessary step, not just for my growth as an artist but also to connect with others.

Even though my Instagram growth hasn’t been as fast or as big as I’d hoped, the act of putting myself out there has been transformative. It’s given me more confidence and helped me see the value in showing up, regardless of the numbers.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an abstract artist with a passion for giving new life to old, mass-produced art I find in thrift stores. By recycling these pieces, I create something entirely new, vibrant, and meaningful. My work is known for being colorful, playful, and full of energy—I’m not afraid to embrace bright colors and bold designs that catch the eye and spark joy.

What I’m most proud of is how my art connects with people on a personal level. It’s incredibly rewarding to hear how a piece brightens someone’s home or brings them a sense of happiness and fun.

What sets me apart is my approach—I love working with upcycled materials and find beauty in transforming forgotten items into something fresh and exciting. My art isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a sustainable, joyful experience for myself and my collectors.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I’m a big believer in operating from the mindset of “What’s the worst that could happen?” Risk is a natural part of life, and often, it’s just the fear of the unknown that holds us back. For me, taking risks has become less about fear and more about trusting that the best is yet to come. When we approach risks with a positive outlook and a sense of calculated intention, they often pay off in ways we couldn’t have imagined.

That said, I also believe in taking risks that align with the natural flow of your life. I don’t think we need to force things or “swim upstream.” If an opportunity presents itself, take the risk. If you have a dream, take the leap. But forcing something that doesn’t fit your current path can be counterproductive. It’s about finding that balance—trusting the process while also embracing the unknown.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://amberdennison.com
• Instagram: @amberdennisonart

Image Credits
Randie Miller