UTPB Alumni Ramon Deanda is an assistant professor of studio arts at Sul Ross State University.
Originally from Presidio, Texas, Deanda graduated from UTPB in December of 2011 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts.
“To me, the Art Department at UTPB was nurturing and helped me grow as a person and an artist. Chris Stanley and Mario Kiran were professors that would challenge us to improve our artistic skills,” said Deanda.
Deanda is passionate about making art and teaching courses such as Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, and Watercolor. He says he is following the teachings and philosophies his own professors instilled in him.
“I try to work on my own painting or woodcut while my students are working. I am sure that this also motivates and influences students, they learn as while watching their instructor create,” said Deanda.
Deanda says UTPB helped him come out of his shell and overcome his shyness.
“Having Chris Stanley as a professor and mentor had a great impact on my career. He would give me the most challenging requests, such as reaching out to people in the community to organize school or art events. As a shy and introverted person, it was really challenging,” said Deanda.
His advice for current students is to do and follow whatever you are passionate about.
“As long as you are passionate about something, nurture it and fight for it. At the end of the day, it is your life and you will enjoy it more if you love your job and if you’re passionate about what you do,” said Deanda.
