Meet Dewane Hughes | Sculptor, Distinguished Professor of Art, The University of Texas at Tyler

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

Hi Dewane, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always been a creative person, just never saw a use in it at a young age, being from a blue collar family in a small rural town. Through a series of fortunate events, I found myself in a Foundations Studio Art class with a professor named Mac Hornecker who was from a very similar background as mine, and quickly learned that making art had the potential of becoming a career. Using his mentorship and guidance as an example, I’ve managed to carve out a nice creative life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Over the years my art has transitioned from medium scale wood pieces into large scale, outdoor steel sculpture. I have had the good fortune to exhibit my work throughout Texas as well as on a national level, thanks in part to my association with the Texas Sculpture Group, and by being represented by Shidoni Gallery in Santa Fe, NM. If I’ve learned anything along the way that I could pass on, work. Just work.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
1. Nasher 2. Great gallery scene
3. Deep Ellum
4. Northpark Mall (great art)
5. Biblical Museum (Have Scott Peck show you around)
6. Grenada Theater

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Mac Hornecker Texas Sculpture Group

Website: www.dewanehughesart.com

Instagram: dfhughes1969