We had the good fortune of connecting with Angie DeBellis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Angie, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Throughout my life, I’ve always gravitated towards creative outlets. I absolutely love using my imagination and creating things from scratch. The idea that I can have a vision in my mind and make it come to life using art has always been the most fulfilling thing for me.

When I was younger, I forced myself into less creative careers because I felt that it was the “safer” option but always found myself unhappy and unfulfilled. I’ve always done art and design as side projects; I would often create custom portraits and branding for friends and family. The more clients I got and the more feedback I received gave me more and more confidence that this was something I could do full-time. Also, the more I was able to develop my own artistic style, the less I wanted to do anything else. I would dream about a more creative career while at my job and wish I could be one of those people who pursued a creative life. Eventually, I realized that the only thing standing in my way was myself and I didn’t have to continue on the path I was on.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Creating one-of-a-kind designs to bring brands and ideas to life is my absolute favorite thing in the world. Whether I am designing an album cover, illustrating a book, creating wearable art, or anything in between, I love bringing my own unique style and thinking to the table. As an artist, it’s easy to feel pressured to make certain pieces or conform to one style in an attempt to make what you think other people want to see. I think the thing I’m most proud of in my art lately is how true to myself I am. I create what I want to make in exactly the way I envision it. The best part is that when I am true to myself creatively, I get the best feedback and it’s also when I feel the most fulfilled.

I’ve recently expanded my business (Whistlin’ Dingo Design Co.) and started creating “wearable art” which is clothing I create out of thrifted and upcycled textiles. Each piece is truly one-of-a-kind and slow sustainable fashion. When I originally started selling my pieces, I wasn’t sure there would be any interest. I was scared that people only saw me as an illustrator and wouldn’t “get” why I creating these pieces. Luckily, the support has been amazing and the feedback has been super encouraging. It’s just a testament to not pigeonholing yourself into just one medium and trusting your vision because no matter what, you’ll find your audience eventually.

I would want the world to know that my brand is truly unique to me. When I create any piece, I make sure I love it first. I don’t create just to produce, I create to bring my own ideas into the world and I am so proud of that fact.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’ve lived in Fort Collins for the past three years and it’s a wonderful combination of quiet outdoors mixed with plenty to do. For breakfast, La Creperie & French Bakery has the best French pastries I’ve ever had. For drinks and small plates, Persimmon has the ultimate vibes with its retro furniture and absolutely delicious cocktails. For dinner, RARE Italian for a wonderful dinner filled with homemade pasta, or Ginger & Baker’s teaching kitchen to learn a new recipe from their chefs.

If Fort Collins is known for anything, it’s known for its affinity for bikes and beer. Biking through miles of paved bike paths from one brewery to another is the quintessential FOCO experience. However, my favorite weekend activity lately is visiting The Comedy Fort for some standup. They always have amazing comedians from all over the country visiting and it’s always a perfect start to the weekend.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to shout out my husband, Blair. He was the first person to really push me to pursue a creative career and has encouraged me in every step along the way. To be honest, pursuing a creative career has a ton of ups and downs marked with a lot of moments of imposter syndrome and he has always helped me see what value I bring to this space. I am not sure I would have had the confidence to take this path without him. I truly can’t say thank you enough for his endless support and cheerleading!

Website: www.whistlindingodesignco.weebly.com

Instagram: WhistlinDingoDesignCo

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