My process is surprise-based and exploratory and often ordered in surprise, restructure, explore, and resolve–then repeat as needed. I use organic shapes and linework to take the viewer on an unexpected path of meditation. My inspirations and subject matter reveals itself to me throughout the day and I enjoy making direct responses to my earlier works as they continue to intrigue and guide me.

My recent work has focused on how my paintings can be experienced in non-traditional ways to reach a broader audience. I have explored sharing through video, sound, augmented reality, and public surfaces to communicate my artistic voice, process, and work. These additional outlets, other than on a canvas in a gallery setting, have provided me an opportunity to become a gateway artist for many first-time art buyers that feel a connection to my art and want to invite abstract art into their lives, which I find deeply special and rewarding.

She was born and raised outside of Chicago, IL. She received her BFA from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee in 2009, where she focused on both design and painting. Dena currently works as an artist and educator while living in Milwaukee, WI. She is also a founding partner at Odvant Creative, a small design studio. Her work has been exhibited at the augmented world expo in Santa Clara California, the Milwaukee Art Museum, Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, Gallerie M and Redline Gallery in Milwaukee, and other galleries throughout her career. In 2017, she was a founding member of Spectacle Art Group, a group of artists focusing on art vs tech. See her personal photography series, called The Feet Project.

Dena has donated works of art to the following organizations for charity:
WMSE, Salvation Army of Wisconsin, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Islands of Brilliance, America Scores Milwaukee