Meet Daria (Dary) Dega | CEO/Owner/Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Daria (Dary) Dega and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daria (Dary), every day, we know how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The seeds of my creativity were planted early in life. I grew up in a family that deeply valued education, science, and culture. As a child, I was surrounded by books, music, and art while also being encouraged to pursue a practical career. This led me to a long and meaningful journey in the medical field, where I specialized in stroke research and mental health, often collaborating with government institutions to improve people’s lives on a systemic level.

When I moved to the United States, I found myself at a personal crossroads. I had left behind a stable professional identity and suddenly had the space to reflect on what truly brings me joy and fulfillment. That’s when my passion for art, which had always quietly accompanied me, became a guiding force.

The idea for DEGALLERY was born from this transformative moment in my life. I wanted to create more than just an art gallery; I envisioned a community space where people from different backgrounds could connect, learn, and express themselves creatively. Drawing from both my scientific background and artistic vision, I established a space that promotes wellness, innovation, education, and cross-cultural dialogue.

DEGALLERY was founded with the aim of creating a welcoming environment where individuals—artists, educators, families, and even those without formal art experience—could come together, express themselves, and connect through art. I witnessed firsthand how creativity can heal, inspire, and foster a sense of community. I aspired to create a platform that blends education, culture, and innovation while celebrating diversity in artistic expression.

It wasn’t just about opening a gallery; it was about building a hub for transformation, dialogue, and opportunity. What began as a dream has evolved into a dynamic cultural space where imagination takes the lead.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is deeply connected to my life story—a blend of science, culture, emotion, and transformation. What sets my work apart is the intersection of disciplines from which it comes. With a lengthy background in medical research and mental health, I bring a scientific sensitivity to patterns, structures, and healing into my artistic process. Whether I’m working in ceramics, mixed media, or digital formats, I view each piece as a layered story, where textures, forms, and ideas collide to create something emotionally alive.

I’m especially drawn to themes of inner strength, vulnerability, connection, and memory. I believe art can speak where words cannot. My work often invites viewers to pause, reflect, and feel—whether through abstract shapes, organic ceramic surfaces, or conceptual installations. I also enjoy experimenting with technology, augmented reality, and digital tools to expand the way people interact with art, especially in gallery and museum settings.

One of the moments I’m most proud of was my first solo exhibition during graduate school, “THE STORY OF WOMEN’S SELF PORTRAIT.
THROUGH THE CENTURIES AND STYLES”. It was a turning point for me—not just as an artist, but as an immigrant, a woman in transition, and a mother rebuilding her life in a new country. That show gave me confidence that I could turn a personal journey into a universal visual language.

But the path here was not easy. Moving to a new country meant starting from scratch—learning a new language, navigating new systems, and joining a new community. I had to prove myself all over again, and I faced many doubts, both internal and external. But I kept going. I turned challenges into creative energy. I applied the same dedication and discipline I used in medicine to build a new professional identity in the arts.

The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that reinvention is possible at any stage of life. You are never too old, too foreign, or too different to begin again. And when you lead with authenticity, passion, and a willingness to learn, the right people and opportunities will find you.

What I want the world to know about me and my projects is this: We are here to break barriers, open minds, and build meaningful cultural bridges—one story, one artwork, one connection at a time.

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?
If my best friend were visiting Bryan–College Station for a week, I’d design a trip that blends art, culture, great food, and unforgettable local charm—because this area has so much heart and hidden magic to share!
Day 1
We will enjoy morning brunch at The Polite Coffee Roasters in Downtown Bryan – great coffee, warm atmosphere, and often local art on the walls. Then we’d head to DEGALLERY, of course! I’d give them a private tour of current exhibitions, introduce them to some local artists, and maybe even guide a mini art workshop together.
In the evening, we’d have dinner at Campfire at The Stella Hotel—elegant, cozy, and with a menu that always surprises. Perfect for a first-night toast.
Day 2
We’d explore the Texas A&M campus, especially the Stark and Forsyth Galleries, and maybe visit the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library—a must-see in terms of both history and design.
Afternoon calls for wine tasting at Messina Hof Winery, one of the oldest and most celebrated wineries in Texas. We’d tour the vineyard, sip local blends, and watch the sunset from their patio.
Day 3
We’d start the day with a walk at Lick Creek Park, soaking in the peaceful trails and Texas skies. Then we’d take an art workshop together—either at DEGALLERY or with a local artist friend—something hands-on and soulful.
Dinner at Porters in Century Square, followed by dessert at Harvest Coffee, where the vibe is artistic and the pastries are excellent.
Day 4
We’d take a short drive to Round Top, especially if it’s antique week: charming shops, quirky art, and incredible finds. Or visit Brenham for Blue Bell Ice Cream and the downtown murals.
Lunch at Royers Café is a must in Round Top—it’s like stepping into a Texas fairytale. Back home for a relaxing movie night or casual wine chat on the porch.
Day 5
We’d spend the day exploring local boutiques and maker spaces in Downtown Bryan—stopping into local bookshops, vintage stores, and artist studios.
Friday night, we’d catch First Friday, the monthly Downtown art & music festival—live bands, street food, art vendors, gallery openings. It’s everything I love about this town in one night!
Day 6
We’d take a local history tour or visit Boonville Heritage Park.
And, of course, the First Saturday Art Market at Degallery, featuring amazing art and Live Jazz Music outside.
Day 7
Our last day would be about slow joy. A drawing class at Degallery, a stroll through Lake Bryan, or simply journaling over coffee at Sweet Eugene’s. We’d share what we loved most, talk about dreams, and make plans for their next visit.
We’d end the trip with a farewell dinner at Christopher’s World Grille—a special spot where global cuisine meets Southern hospitality.
Bryan–College Station may surprise people—it’s not just a university town. It’s a place where tradition and innovation meet, where art is alive, and where people genuinely care. The energy here is creative, welcoming, and full of potential, and I’d be proud to show my friend every side of it.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Behind every achievement in my life is a village of incredible people whose belief in me helped make it all possible.

I would like to begin by honoring my parents, who provided me with a strong foundation in both discipline and imagination. They taught me to value education, to be curious, to work hard, and to always look for beauty in the world—whether in science, culture, or art. That early grounding shaped not only my career in medicine and research but also gave me the courage to later follow a completely different path.

My husband deserves special recognition. His love, patience, and unwavering support gave me the strength to start over in a new country, pursue a new career, and face all the unknowns of building a life around creativity and community.

I’m also endlessly grateful to my children. Their resilience, curiosity, and love gave me the courage to start over in a new country and build a new life from scratch. They’ve grown up watching me take risks, follow my passions, and stay true to my values—and I hope it inspires them as much as they inspire me every day.

There are also key mentors who changed my life. Professor Katherine Burton Jones, Director of the Museum Studies Program at Harvard University, played a pivotal role in inspiring my passion for museum work. Her forward-thinking approach to museums and technology demonstrated to me the power of these institutions in connecting people and ideas. I’m also profoundly grateful to Professors Matt DeFord, Phyllis Lear, and Leslie Gregory Gruesbeck from Northwestern State University. They didn’t just teach me about studio art —they gave me confidence, purpose, and the support I needed to mount my first solo graduate exhibition. Their guidance helped me feel rooted and seen during my early years in the U.S. art world.

And of course, I must thank the incredible art community of Bryan–College Station. When I founded DEGALLERY, I didn’t know how the community would respond—but what I found was a warm, vibrant, and open-hearted group of artists, educators, and supporters. Organizations such as the Visual Art Society, Texas A&M University, and numerous local businesses believed in the vision and joined forces to help grow it. This community welcomed me not only as a gallery founder but as a person, a mother, and an artist. They helped transform DEGALLERY from a dream into a space of cultural exchange, learning, and inspiration.

No journey is walked alone. I stand where I am today because of the collective energy, generosity, and wisdom of so many remarkable people. Their fingerprints are on every piece of art, every program, and every connection made at DEGALLERY—and I am forever grateful.

Website: https://www.degalleru.us

Instagram: @degallery.us

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daria-dary-dega-734478341/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/degallery.us/