You may have admired her artwork in local galleries, on the Plaza District's Plaza Walls, or outside OKC's 21c Hotel. We sat down to chat with Denise Duong, the local artist behind the 2019 Keep It Local Card design.

What’s your background and what led you to pursue art? 
I’ve always wanted to pursue art.  It was the only thing that I ever wanted to do since my first memories.  I've been creating things constantly. I come from a Vietnamese family that immigrated here.  They would question my decisions, but were always very supportive. (Of my dreams..not my teenage choices sometimes.)  But good grades went a long way in our house.  Just don’t royally f*ck up and you were good.  

How would you describe your artistic style? 
Narrative with humor, yet there is depth.  

What inspires you when you’re creating art? 
There’s so many elements about traveling that are inspiring.  The people, the colors, nature, the air, the sounds, the buildings.  The emotions of past present and possible future.  I can be home and be inspired as well.  I pretty much soak up my environment physically and mentally.

Who are some artists whose styles you really admire?/Is there any specific artist who has particularly influenced you? 
I admire so many artists.  I love styles that I can not do.  I admire the detailed, the realistic, the simple and abstract.  I was told my artwork is very French - one of the reason’s why I visited France.  It seemed kind of like my past life. Haha.  I like the multi use of materials that Rauschenberg does.  And I love the strange  sculptures of Modigliani.  

What do you love about the current art scene in Oklahoma? 
I love how supportive everyone is. Everyone is excited and its very energetic.

Do you feel that you have any limitations as an artist right now? 
Not that I can think of.  I feel grateful I’m able to do what I do and plus some!  Well, of course there are always these grand ideas that cost money to do. So now, it's just about taking time to map out ideas and see how to fund some of them. 

Where can people find your art? 
In Oklahoma City, you can find it at JRB Art at the Elms, and my gallery Little D Gallery - both in the Paseo (Arts District)!

Do you have any upcoming projects you can tell us about? 
I just finished 2 murals at Plaza Walls (OKC).

I should be able to start my project with the Faces of the 47th in a few weeks.  I’m wheat pasting 47 faces of public school kids on the old Jesus Saves building on NE 10th Street (OKC).  Its just a reminder to voters in November to vote for pro public education.  WE are 47th in the nation in the public school ranking.  

We are celebrating a one year and 1 month anniversary at Little D Gallery on December 7th. 

I’ve got a show in Seoul (South Korea) in March 2019!  

Oh, and working with Lance (McDaniel) on some small animations for an opera in November.  

What advice would you give to someone who is aspiring to make a living as an artist? 
Persistence.  Don’t let rejection take you down.  And self impose deadlines - they work...at least for me.  And be true to yourself.  Find your lines and strokes and be true to them.  

Where can people follow you on social media? 
Instagram: @lildfromokc

Facebook: I think I’m just Denise Duong 

Twitter: I think it's @deniseduong ( I got my actual name because I signed up while living in San Fransisco in exchange for free drinks and food. Who knew it would get so big.)

Is there anything we haven’t asked you about that you want to tell us? 
I have a bull terrier named Debo that I love. That’s about it.  

Hope this isn’t all over the place.

I’m not much of a shopper when it comes to clothing. I typically purchase only something I specifically need -- a dress for an event, athletic shoes, a work jacket that goes with everything. I’m pretty practical when it comes to clothing and how much I buy, so this allows me to be more strategic about where I shop. Here are a few examples of strategic shopping where I was able to #keepitlocaler.

Shop Good
This summer I was specifically looking for a hat to wear on a vacation, and Shop Good came through. They’ve got a wonderful selection of accessories, t-shirts and hoodies. What’s better? Your t-shirt purchases support a good cause.

Blue Seven / Just OK
I purchase a pair of raw denim jeans every other year. I don’t formally participate in the Clean Start Project, but I do my own version. Spending a decent amount on quality jeans is definitely worth the investment. They keep their shape and I rarely wash them (my husband blogged about this here), which makes getting dressed so much easier. My 2 year old jeans literally busted last night. Time for another visit! They’ve also got a great selection of casual clothing, shoes and accessories.

Red Coyote Running and Fitness 
I’ve just gotten back into running this year, so after I’d kept the habit long enough to justify new shoes, I went to Red Coyote. New shoes were way overdue. The staff was super helpful and gave me informed advice that catered to my specific running style. They’ve got a thorough selection of shoes and brands along with clothing and accessories for every level of runner.

Fruition Designs
I’d been on the hunt for a new work computer bag for several months. I’d been using a tote bag not meant for a laptop for 2 years, and my coworker was growing tired of my over-dramatic exclamation that this bag is ruining my life. I hadn’t planned on going in to Fruition to find a bag, but they had the perfect size leather bag for only $100. Even better, the Carry 117 bag was handmade by women in Ethiopia and my purchase supported their work. The store also carries home goods, artwork and gifts from talented artisans.

Mode
I picked up some simple black sandals and a swim coverup this summer.

The Black Scintilla
I found a lovely blouse for work.

Admittedly, the biggest challenge I have for local clothes shopping is finding my age/work appropriate clothing. I feel like a majority of boutiques cater to younger audiences and there isn’t much selection when it comes to finding work clothing that fits my style. I’m a regular at Nordstrom Rack, Modcloth and Name Brand Clothing, but I always try and hit up boutiques to see if I can find what I need there first. Also, my husband and I are pretty active outdoors. We’ve loved going to Native Summit, but it’s so far from our home. We’d love to have more options for outdoor clothing to purchase locally. So, I’ve found the best way to go about it is to mix it up, save my big purchases for local shops and just do what I can. Remember, the shift is about moving just a percentage, not the whole nine yards. I don’t have much advice when it comes to men’s shopping. My husband pretty much only wears t-shirts from his old store and local artist friends. I’d love to hear your recommendations on local men’s shopping!

Clothing Notes:

What does shopping more local mean for a millenial(ish) couple who are striving to have a more minimal lifestyle when it comes to material things?
Planning to purchase only what you need, but being able to invest in a higher-quality products is an excellent way to limit an overflowing closet. Planning to purchase these items from a local shop is even better.

What is the feasibility of a commitment to shop local for those that do not have much flexibility or resources?
For the single mom, the family living paycheck to paycheck, the person without access to reliable transportation? Local thrift stores are probably the best way for those who don’t have much in the way of resources to shop locally.

Tweet your recommendations, tips, tricks or questions for Kristen to @kristenvails with hashtag #keepitlocalok or #keepitlocaler