Artist · Strategist · Community Builder

Dena Helling is a Bay Area–based multidisciplinary artist and creative strategist working at the intersection of art, technology, and human connection.

An Alameda native with nearly two decades spanning enterprise tech and independent creative practice, Dena brings a rare blend of operational rigor and artistic intuition. Her work moves fluidly across photography, visual storytelling, branding, experiential design, and in-person creative programming—grounded in the belief that creativity is sacredly human.

She has collaborated with and led teams at Apple, Pinterest, Cruise, and Alphabet’s Wing, supporting initiatives across technology, experiential programming and international operations.

In 2017, Dena pioneered Apple’s Today At Apple as the first Creative Pro for Art & Design in Emeryville, CA, curating and hosting live workshop trainings and community experiences that made creativity accessible and social.

Today, her work centers on designing and facilitating in person creative experiences with Common Ground Craft Club, that fosters hyper local connection, curiosity and creativity, bringing people together through the simple, powerful act of analog crafting.