Dr. Daria Penionzhkevich Dega
Ph.D., MD, MAA
Professional Bio
Daria Dega (Dary Dega) is an accomplished gallery director, award-winning artist, curator, educator, community leader, and healthcare professional with extensive experience in art, management, and medicine. She has made significant contributions to the international art community as the Owner, Director, and Curator of Degallery Corp. (2016 – present), an award-winning global art gallery and studio in Bryan, Texas. Under her leadership, Degallery has become a renowned hub for art education, exhibitions, and creative workshops for all ages and skill levels. Daria has excellent knowledge of collections databases, fundraising programs, and federal and local government grants. Daria is a great philanthropy leader and manager. Each year since 2023, under Dega’s management, Degallery has received the highest awards, such as Best Gallery, Best Art Studio, Best Exhibits, and Best Art Programs.
Daria’s commitment to art education is evident in her role as the Founder and President of DEGA International Art Association Inc. (2019 – present). She has established several notable art events, including the International Kids Art Contest “Happy DEGART,” the “Winter Art Show” for professional artists, and the DEGART International Grand Art Event. These programs foster global artistic exchange, showcase diverse talents, and promote art education among all age groups.
Daria’s academic background is robust and multidisciplinary. She earned her Master of Art in Arts degree from Northwestern State University of Louisiana in 2023, with a creative research focus on “The Story of Women’s Self-Portrait Through Centuries and Styles.” Her graduate school research was focused on an Art History project that included European and American Art during Centuries XVII – XXI, and also included studio projects with painting, drawing, and ceramics. Her educational Solo Exhibition was marked with the highest grade, showcasing her scholarly and artistic prowess. In 2023, Daria decided to continue her education improvement and started a new graduate program in Museum Study at Harvard University.
Daria holds a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and Rehabilitation Medicine from the National Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Health Resorts in Russia, where she also served as a Senior Research Scientist, Group Leader for rehabilitation research, and Associate Professor.
Before she transitioned into the arts, Daria had a distinguished career in the medical field. She was the Head of the Department of Public Health in the Odintsovo district of Moscow (2011-2013). She held various leadership positions at the National Research Center for Rehabilitation Medicine and Health Resorts in Moscow, where she specialized in rehabilitation medicine and healthcare management.
In addition to her professional roles, Daria is deeply involved in various community and cultural organizations. She has served as President of the Texas A&M University Women’s Club, a board member for several art societies, and a member of multiple professional and community organizations, including the Portrait Society of America, Professional Artists of Central Texas, Visual Art Society BCS, Brazos Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the American Business Women’s Association.
Daria’s artwork has been widely recognized and exhibited across numerous group and solo exhibitions in the United States. Her work has garnered many awards, including first place in various categories such as Oil Painting, Mixed Media, and Sculpture at prestigious art competitions. Daria’s contributions to the art world extend beyond her own creative practice, as she has also won accolades for her role in promoting art education and community involvement through Degallery’s programs and events.
Daria’s unique combination of expertise in both art, management, and medicine, her passion for education, and her leadership in community engagement make her a distinguished figure in her field. Her career is a testament to her dedication to the arts and her commitment to fostering creativity and education on an international scale.