Deborah Kuster - Jake the Deer-Hearted
Deborah Kuster (Ph.D.) has been involved in the field of art education for all ages for her entire career. She creates artworks from her hand-woven textiles. Deborah is Professor Emeritus of Art at the University of Central Arkansas, and her artworks have been exhibited and published nationally and internationally. Deborah and her husband call Texas and Arkansas their home. Their daughter, son-in-law, and three grandchildren live in Texas. Join the Tell Your Story team as we learn about Deborah and her story.
"We are all a little bit like Jake the Deer-Hearted, just searching for a place to feel loved and accepted in this big world."
What is your name and where are you from?
My name is Deborah Kuster, I grew up and raised my daughter in Texas. I have spent the past 19 years in Arkansas.
What do you do for a living?
I have been involved in art education for my entire career. I've taught art to all ages in public schools and community organizations, overseen community programs as Curator of Education at the Tyler Museum of Art, and prepared future art teachers as an art professor at the University of Central Arkansas, retiring in 2019. I truly get as much joy in teaching and studying art as I do from creating my own.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I have been a "maker" since childhood and continue to find great satisfaction in producing a creative product, even as simple as adding a new ingredient to an omelet. Creating my art is a very labor-intensive process that combines all that I love doing—reflecting, visualizing, designing, assembling, weaving, sewing, and embellishing. I also enjoy time with family and friends, nature walks, reading, volunteering my time and skills, and visiting art museums and galleries.
What are two special or unique things about you that are probably not known by your co-workers and acquaintances?
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Are there causes or issues that you truly care about?
Abused children and women; quality schools and education; crisis pregnancy support
What is your story as a person?
I am naturally a very shy introvert, mostly unnoticed by those around me. Upon my conversion to a faith in Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior in high school, I began a different path. I have found my confidence to be in the hope and peace found in His promises. Though life is hard, I am never alone.
What is the main story you want to share with the world through your book?
We all will face hardships in this world. May my story bring hope that with love and care from each other we can each find our way home.
If you had an opportunity to share just ONE message with the WHOLE WORLD, what would it be?
Deep within each person is a desire to be loved and have purpose. I believe that can only be found in a relationship with our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
What does family mean to you? Tell us about your family.
Family can mean blood-relationships or love/caring/close-relationships. I grew up in a family that took care of me. I have many families now. Generations of blood relatives as well as varying families in my involvements in my profession, church, and community. Family is essential.