Dena Yago

Dena Yago is an accomplished artist, creative strategist, and co-founder of Applied Arts, a strategic consultancy that emphasizes equitable partnerships between artists and clients. Established in 2019 alongside Carson Salter, Applied Arts aims to redefine the role of creative agencies by integrating artistic insights into strategic work, thereby fostering collaborative environments that benefit both artists and businesses.12

Background and Career

• K-HOLE Co-Founder: Before launching Applied Arts, Yago was a founding member of the trend forecasting collective K-HOLE, which explored the intersection of art and industry.15
• Artistic Contributions: Yago has exhibited her work at prestigious venues such as The Hammer Museum and the Warsaw Museum of Modern Art. Her writings have been featured in notable publications like Flash Art and Frieze .35
• Strategic Consulting: In her role at Applied Arts, she has developed branding strategies for various clients, including Tesla and Hulu’s The Handmaid's Tale .34

Philosophy and Impact

Yago’s work is rooted in the belief that artists can thrive outside traditional market pressures. Applied Arts seeks to provide economic opportunities that allow artists to maintain their creative integrity while engaging with commercial projects. This approach aligns with historical movements that advocate for the integration of art into broader societal contexts, echoing initiatives like the Artist Placement Group in London.13

Dena Yago's multifaceted career reflects her commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for artists within the creative industry.