For an artist of any study their craft evolves through a lifetime, creating a seamless story of artistic journey and change. Denise Graham’s story is no different. Denise appreciated the quiet complexity of nature and the richness of family ties. However, a yearning to see the world bubbled in her heart. So a traveling she did go, gathering experience and information to draw upon for her art. Early on, Denise’s chosen medium was watercolor. Living through a dual experience of watercolor art and memory she would recreate scenery and memories of her travels. As time progressed Denise found a new form of expression.

In 1997 Denise began exploring the medium of polymer clay. She focused primarily on jewelry and home décor items.

Searching to find a middle ground between her original inspiration and newfound possibilities, Denise began creating what she calls “Clay Paintings.” Clay paintings are created by expressing color, texture and shape through a multitude of techniques and manipulation of the polymer clay. The result is the creation of a one-of-a-kind, three-dimensional sculptural painting.

Denise's new use for polymer was showcased on HGTV (Home and Garden Television) “That’s Clever.” She demonstrated the creation of her sunflower painting. As a founding member of the Pittsburgh Polymer Clay Guild, Denise is active in the polymer community by exhibiting, writing, speaking, and occasionally teaching the medium. 

Her work appeared in Polymer Café magazine October 2010 and August 2008, “Polymer Clay Creative Traditions.” She has won awards locally and regionally, including Second Place in the National Polymer Clay Guild’s Progress & Possibilities ’07, Third International Juried Exhibition for alternative use of medium.

Denise lives outside of Pittsburgh most of the year with her cookie baking husband and two smart schnauzers.