We’re looking forward to introducing you to Andrew Dengate. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Andrew, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
A little bit of both—which, in my line of work, are both necessary and productive. You’re not going to make tangible progress without a path. For example, I might need to design a shirt that speaks to a specific crowd, or figure out which elements need to come together to make a show really impress people.
But wandering is where I find the things I didn’t know I was missing. Painting in ways I never have can unlock new potential, or drawing in a style I haven’t tried before. If I have time and an idea, I’ll wander with it for a while, even if it doesn’t fit into my normal repertoire. Sometimes I develop a new technique or style; sometimes I find nothing.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Andrew Dengate, and I work across the creative space. My practice spans multiple channels, including painting, graphic illustration, product design, and occasional space remodels and murals.
What sets me apart is twofold. First, I operate comfortably as both an artist and a designer. Second, I balance creativity with logic. I bring a strong mix of right- and left-brain thinking, which means I can handle the practical details just as confidently as the creative vision—whether that’s answering the email, refining the concept, or seeing a project through from idea to execution.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
Anything associated with fear. My theme for 2026 is this: no one is coming for you—because you don’t need them. You already have the skills to solve the problem.
For years, I’ve been ruled by “what if,” constantly rehearsing worst-case scenarios. Now it’s time to shift the question. It’s time to explore: what if it all works out?
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
The uniqueness that you are made fun of and bullied for, will be what you are celebrated for later in life. Lean into it, nobody wants another copy.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The idea that we’re constantly coming up with entirely new things is a bit of a myth. Everything is a repeat—maybe with a twist, but still a repeat.
I was walking through the Detroit Institute of Arts, looking at work that, in some cases, is thousands of years old. Later, I wandered through a used bookstore, flipping through publications from the last century. It hit me: every design, every color combination, every technique has been employed before.
I actually find that reassuring. It means the answers already exist. I just need to know where to look.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
I don’t think I’ve ever been truly satisfied with an outcome that I was looking for. The reality is that while this makes for a pretty uncomfortable way of being – it’s also what drives me to keep improving, reinventing, and progressing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://andrewdengateart.com
- Instagram: @andrewdengateart
Image Credits
Photo credits: Sara Dalton
