About Me
My name is John Payne and I am very excited to be the new art teacher at Dewitt Perry Middle School. I have had many jobs in my life time and feel that developing multiple skills is very important, whether you become a “professional” artist or not. I graduated from the Art Institute of Dallas with a degree in design in 1992. From there I was a graphic designer and illustrator for many years, developing my computer skills and eventually returning to school.
My second degree from the Art Institute was in computer animation in 1999. Shortly after this, I joined the Navy Reserve, feeling a sense of duty to my community. After a few years I realized that my true passion was art. I began attending the University of North Texas for a degree in Printmaking. While there, I realized that I was already teaching other students. I decided to double major in studio and education. In December 2008 I graduated with a Printmaking degree from UNT. In the spring of 2009 I received my degree in Visual Art Studies, and became an art teacher.
The tree of learning never stops, it only grows different branches. Building a strong foundation allows one to reach into different areas of interest.
