Brooklyn-based illustrator Dena Cooper knows the ins and outs of the fashion industry. Trained in fashion design, she had a fruitful career as a womenswear designer in New York City. Add to that, an early passion for drawing and an interest in fine arts in high school and college, and you get powerful illustrations that capture the spirit of fashion.
“As I’m sure is the same with many artists, my entire life has been dedicated to my artwork and growing as a creative,” she told I Love Illustration. “I drew and painted and created and imagined constantly as a child and was lucky enough to learn the arts in high school, college and beyond.”
Nowadays, her clients include giants like Miu Miu, Cartier, Lela Rose, Budweiser, and Neiman Marcus. “I get so much of my inspiration from the runway and the fashion industry as a whole,” she says. “A few of my favorite designers are Giambattista Valli, Delpozo, Dries Van Noten and of course the heavy hitters like Dior and Valentino. I’ve always had a love of fashion and I’m so glad I can celebrate that through my artwork.”
“No matter what the obstacles are in front of you, keep pushing forward and learning and growing as an artist,” she adds. “You really never know when your big break will come and you only get the things you ask for in life, especially as an artist.”
Follow her creative journey on Instagram.