We were lucky to catch up with Kyle Denman recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Kyle thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Ever since I was a child, I have always wanted to be an artist. I was always drawn to creativity. I spent my childhood sketching, building, and imagining, and I instinctively knew that art was my calling. I wanted to be an artist, but I also understood that pursuing a career in the arts wasn’t always straightforward—especially when opportunities seemed so far out of reach.

While art was my passion, I took a more traditional route in higher education and studied political science. The decision to study political science wasn’t a diversion from creativity; rather, it was a way for me to understand systems, human behavior, and the power of storytelling. In a way, it was another form of expression—a different kind of art, but one that would later complement my design work. What I didn’t know at the time was that my studies would help me in unexpected ways later in life.

It wasn’t until college, when I began working with the Scripps Gerontology’s Opening Minds Through Art (OMA) program, that I truly began to see the connection between art and my desire to make an impact. Through this program, I witnessed the transformative power of art in the lives of older adults who have dementia and Alzheimer’s. I saw how art could bridge gaps in communication, spark memories, and even provide emotional healing at later stages in life. The experience was eye-opening and deepened my understanding of the universal importance of art—regardless of age, background, or circumstance. It showed me that creativity wasn’t just for a select group of people; it was a language for all.

After that experience, I made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles and pursue a career in fashion. I viewed fashion as the most accessible and universal form of art—an art that allowed people to express their identities and connect with others in meaningful ways. Fashion became the natural canvas for my creative expression, and I dove into this world with a clear vision: to create collections that told stories, sparked conversation, and resonated with diverse audiences.

But even as I established myself as a designer, I found myself drawn to leadership roles. My background in political science has provided me with the tools to think strategically, advocate for important causes, and lead with purpose. Eventually, I took on the role of Executive Director of Arts Bridging the Gap (ABG), a Los Angeles-based nonprofit focused on supporting youth through the healing elements of the arts. In this role, I have been able to blend my two worlds—design and social impact—in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Designing collections, working with celebrity clients, and sharing the stories behind those collections has given me a platform to speak on behalf of causes I care deeply about. At the same time, leading ABG has allowed me to support young people in discovering their own creative voices, ensuring that they had access to opportunities I didn’t have growing up.

Now, as both a designer and a nonprofit Executive Director, I see the power of weaving together these two seemingly different fields. Fashion is a tool for self-expression and empowerment, while leading a nonprofit gives me the chance to provide that same opportunity to others, particularly youth who may not otherwise have the resources. I’ve learned that creativity isn’t just a means of self-expression; it’s a way to change lives, break barriers, and build community.

Reflecting on my journey, it’s clear to me that every piece of the puzzle—whether it was my early years as a child, my academic studies, my work with Scripps, or my time in the fashion world—has led me to where I am now. My designs are shaped by my belief in the power of art to bring people together, and my work in the nonprofit sector reinforces my commitment to using art as a tool for social change. Each role, each experience, has been a step in my ongoing exploration of how art and leadership can create positive change in the world.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My personal experiences with identity, culture, and belonging have deeply influenced my work, making it both introspective and community-oriented.

I got into the fashion industry later than some—my initial studies were in political science, but I realized early on that my true calling was in artistry and creativity. Fashion, to me, is not just about clothing; it’s a platform for storytelling, for self-expression, and for shaping culture. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills and established my brand, creating designs that are not only visually striking but also deeply rooted in my experiences and values.

At the heart of my work, I design with a focus on inclusivity. I work with models of all sizes, genders, and abilities, using fashion as a tool to break down barriers and challenge conventional beauty standards. I aim to create pieces that allow people to feel seen and empowered, no matter their background or physical appearance. I also strive to ensure that my designs are both functional and artistic, with an emphasis on the details that bring a piece of clothing to life—whether it’s the fabric choices, the construction, or the way it drapes and moves.

One of the things that sets me apart is my commitment to storytelling through my work. Fashion can be a powerful medium for communication, and I aim to use my designs to tell stories—whether it’s about identity, culture, or social issues. This mindset is part of what led me to become the Executive Director of Arts Bridging the Gap (ABG), a nonprofit focused on creating access to arts and culture for underrepresented communities in Los Angeles. Through this platform, I’m able to take my passion for fashion and merge it with my desire to give back, creating impactful art installations and murals that engage communities and start conversations.

I’m most proud of the recognition I’ve received, including being named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2023 and being named the International Fashion Designer of the Year in 2021. But more than accolades, I’m proud of the impact I’ve had on the people who wear my designs and the communities I’ve worked with. My focus has always been on authenticity—being true to myself and encouraging others to do the same through the work I create.

For me, effort beats talent every time—a motto that I live by. I believe that perseverance, hard work, and a willingness to learn and adapt are what truly lead to success, not just raw talent. This mindset has shaped my career and helped me navigate challenges, both personally and professionally.

When it comes to what I want people to know about my work and my brand, I want them to understand that I am driven by a mission: to create clothing and art that celebrates individuality, promotes inclusivity, and inspires confidence. I believe in the power of creativity to make a difference, and I strive to reflect that in everything I do. I want my clients, followers, and fans to know that my designs are not just about fashion—they’re about fostering a deeper connection to oneself and the world around us. My work is a testament to the power of embracing who you are and showing up authentically, in all your complexity.

I’m not just designing clothes—I’m creating art that tells stories, builds communities, and helps people feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. Whether it’s through fashion, the community-driven work of ABG, or my broader creative vision, I’m here to make a lasting impact. And I believe that the journey of self-expression and empowerment, through creativity, is something everyone can—and should—embrace.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

One thing I think non-creatives may struggle to fully understand about my journey as a creative is the immense balance between intuition and structure that exists in this work. Creativity often feels like a free-flowing river—you’re inspired, you have ideas, and you’re constantly creating, evolving, and experimenting. But there’s also a lot of unseen groundwork, planning, and strategizing that goes into making those ideas come to life.

For many people, they may look at a finished fashion collection or a design and assume it’s all about the “art” or the “inspiration” that happens in the moment. While inspiration is undoubtedly key to the process, what’s not always visible is the structure—the months of planning, sourcing materials, managing budgets, and navigating deadlines. Creativity, especially when it’s your livelihood, requires an incredible amount of organization, problem-solving, and perseverance. There’s an overwhelming amount of behind-the-scenes work that needs to happen for something to go from a concept to a tangible product.

For example, when designing a collection, the first spark of an idea might be rooted in a concept or feeling, but then comes the research phase: finding the right fabrics, understanding the cultural and historical context, making sure everything aligns with the brand’s identity. Then, there’s the time spent fitting the garments, adjusting the patterns, ensuring the craftsmanship is perfect, and figuring out how to execute everything within the constraints of time and budget. All of this requires a blend of intuition and practicality, which can be difficult to communicate to those who don’t have to think about logistics or resources when they’re making art or ideas come to life.

Another challenge non-creatives might struggle with is the emotional toll that creativity can take. For me, art and design are deeply personal—they are extensions of my own experiences, thoughts, and feelings. As a result, it’s not always easy to separate yourself from your work, especially when you face setbacks or criticism. When you pour so much of yourself into something, it can feel vulnerable to have it evaluated or judged, especially in a public setting. That vulnerability isn’t always apparent to people who may not work in creative fields, but it’s something many creatives, myself included, learn to navigate over time. It’s not just about creating something aesthetically pleasing—it’s about baring a piece of your soul through your work.

This vulnerability also plays a role in what I see as one of the biggest challenges for non-creatives to understand: the constant state of self-doubt. Creativity isn’t linear; you don’t always know if what you’re doing will resonate with people or if it will succeed in the way you hope. Every new project, design, or collection comes with a wave of uncertainty, even for someone who has achieved success. It’s part of the process—doubt, failure, and reinvention—but it can be a tough and lonely road. There’s a saying in the creative world that “failure is just feedback,” but that doesn’t always make it easier to swallow when things don’t go according to plan.

Lastly, there’s the concept of impact, which is a driving force behind my work. As a designer, I’m constantly striving to create pieces that go beyond surface-level aesthetics. I want my designs to tell a story, to evoke emotion, and to bring people together. The hardest part of being a creative, especially when you’re working with themes of empowerment and social change, is knowing whether your work will make the impact you intend. There’s always a risk of it being misunderstood or not having the effect you envisioned. But the beauty of creative work is that it has the potential to open conversations, provoke thought, and push boundaries.

For non-creatives, I think it’s important to understand that while creativity is driven by passion, it’s also a discipline that requires persistence, vulnerability, and a willingness to face uncertainty. There is a sense of both freedom and restriction in the process. You are constantly balancing between following your intuition and the practical realities of turning an idea into something tangible. It’s a journey full of growth, setbacks, and successes—but ultimately, it’s all about learning to trust the process and embrace the challenges that come with it.

If anything, I’d hope that non-creatives come away from this with a better understanding of the emotional depth, the perseverance, and the calculated strategy behind what might seem like “just” art or design. Creativity, in any form, isn’t just about producing something beautiful—it’s about engaging with the world, taking risks, and finding ways to make those risks meaningful.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, for me, is the ability to connect with others on a deeply human level through my work. Whether it’s a fashion collection, a piece of art, or a community project, creativity allows me to tap into something universal—something that transcends words and resonates emotionally. There’s a kind of magic in seeing someone engage with your work and feel seen, heard, or inspired by it.

One of the things I love most about being a creative is the ability to give others permission to express themselves, too. Fashion, in particular, is a form of self-expression—when someone wears a piece I’ve designed, I’m not just dressing them; I’m allowing them to communicate a part of their identity, their mood, their story. Seeing someone walk into a room with confidence in something you’ve created—that’s an indescribable feeling. It’s like creating a bridge between the personal and the public, and I’m always deeply moved by the way people embody and interpret the art I make.

Beyond that, it’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my work has the potential to spark change, whether it’s through encouraging someone to see themselves differently, amplifying underrepresented voices, or contributing to a larger conversation. As a designer and nonprofit leader, I get to work on projects that have a real impact—whether it’s mentoring youth in the arts, advocating for diversity in fashion, or designing collections that challenge norms. It’s this blend of artistry and social responsibility that makes my work feel meaningful and purposeful. Knowing that I’ve made a difference in someone’s life, whether through fashion or my nonprofit initiatives, is the driving force behind everything I do.

Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is that my work allows me to be part of a larger story. It’s about having a platform to share stories—my own and others—and to offer people a sense of empowerment, representation, and connection. Creativity, for me, is not just about making something beautiful, but about making something that has meaning and leaves a lasting impression on those who experience it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kyledenmanfashion.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekyledenman
• Other: Arts Bridging the Gap: www.artsbridgingthegap.org

Image Credits

@roynelsonphotos