Today we’d like to introduce you to Denise Lopez.
Hi Denise, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My love of art, books and people brought me to where I am today at a The Den. I studied art and interior architecture at The School of The Art Institute of Chicago starting in high school and throughout college. While studying and creating my portfolio I worked in the hospitality industry for many years eventually becoming a Chef Concierge. I really enjoyed curating unique experiences for clients using my creative abilities to add a personal touch. While living in Chicago and here in Los Angeles I freelance in art/set design and occasionally have opportunities to help clients with interior design. Shortly after relocating to San Pedro, with the encouragement of friends and family I was presented with an opportunity to open my own commercial space. Not knowing exactly what it would entail, starting from scratch, it gave me a chance to make it my own. The Den is essentially my favorite room in a home, filled with art, books, ceramics, music and where I feel most inspired. San Pedro has been really welcoming to me and my family and I wanted to give a little something back.
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?
Taking a chance on myself and opening a brick and mortar during the pandemic was and remains to be a struggle.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In 2014 after being diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, which is more common in black women, I first put my hands in clay. I really enjoy the process of hand building, both coil and slab, because it allows more freedom and flexibility. It also requires me to be patient and wait for things to dry before next steps. Forming vessels and incorporating text helps me communicate my thoughts, feelings and any emotions from my current journey. A lot of my initial work with clay centered around expressing my fears of not taking enough chances on myself, including being my own boss. In 2022 I opened The Den with the intention of carving out a space for my own studio and put myself first.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Creativity is an essential characteristic to the success of The Den. I didn’t have an exact idea of what I wanted it to look like but I trusted that if I wanted to be in The Den, others would too! One thing I hear most from people is that they want to stay and just hang out. I really enjoy connecting with folks, we share news regarding visual artists, gallery and show openings, music concerts, new books and old. My goal was to create an environment that felt comfortable and inquisitive. I also use the space to have meetings with interior design clients from San Pedro and neighboring areas. I’m still growing and developing and so is The Den. I’m optimistic that the space can invite future book readings, creative workshops and more to the community. I really want The Den to become a destination spot. It’s tiny but it’s powerful!
Contact Info:
- Website: TheDenSanPedro.com
- Instagram: TheDenSanPedro
