Drawing, Coloring, Acrylic and oil Painting, Illustration, Caricature, storyboard,Character designing, Portrait, Human Anatomy

Find out more about Deva

• Tell us more about your subject. How did you develop an interest in this field?

  I'm a born artist, and my love for creativity led me to study at the Government College of Arts and Crafts. As an Animation Director, I managed teams of over 80 members, working on various projects for companies across Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines. These experiences have shaped my approach to leadership and creativity.
  Now, I'm focused on giving back by sharing what I've learned over the years with students. I want to provide them with practical, quick insights into the industry, helping them unlock their creative potential through visual storytelling in a professional and impactful way.

• What or who is the motivation behind you choosing to teach & why?

  My decision to teach was sparked by years of hands-on experience in animation and art, along with encouragement from friends and well-wishers like Mr. Chennappan, who recognized my potential. After 15 years in the animation industry, working on projects across Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines, I accumulated a wealth of knowledge-insights that go beyond what you can learn from books. These lessons come from real-world challenges, collaboration, and creative problem-solving.
  My close friends often said, 'You've gained so much; why not share it with the next generation?' This made me realize that I had the chance to pass on everything I'd learned more efficiently and condensedly. Why let others spend years figuring out what I could teach them more streamlinedly?
  
  Additionally, my school art teacher, Mr. Vimalasanan, inspired me to appreciate the value of creativity and sharing knowledge. That's what motivates me-to take the 15 years of experiences I've had in animation and art and share them with students. My goal is to help them fast-track their growth, avoid common pitfalls, and inspire them to unleash their creative potential. I want to be the mentor that I was fortunate to have, guiding young minds and making their journey in the art and animation fields a little smoother.

• How does your work help society?

  My work in the art field is a vibrant contribution to society, igniting creativity and emotional connections through the magic of visual storytelling. After dedicating decades to honing my craft in drawing, oil painting, human anatomy, character design, storyboarding, body language, and animation, I've come to realize that I am not who I am without society. It has been my greatest teacher, shaping my journey and fueling my passion. Now, I'm eager to give back.
  As an educator, I take immense pride in nurturing the next generation of artists. Watching my students participate in competitions and win district-level awards fills me with joy. I strive to equip them with the insights and tools they need to thrive in the art field, emphasizing the power of visual storytelling to engage audiences and forge meaningful connections.
  
  I also stress the importance of cultural representation in media, weaving diverse stories and perspectives into my work to foster inclusivity and understanding.
  
  Ultimately, my mission is to inspire and empower the next generation of artists on their journeys. By sharing the wealth of knowledge I've gained, I hope to enrich their futures and make it a more vibrant and imaginative world for everyone.

• If you had to think of a role model for your work, who do you think of & why?

  If I had to think of role models for my work, I would choose Mr. Vimalasanan, my school art teacher, and Mr. Arularasan from the College of Arts and Crafts. Both of these educators have profoundly influenced my artistic journey through their passion for teaching and their systematic approach to instruction.
  Mr. Vimalasanan instilled in me a deep appreciation for the arts, nurturing my creativity while emphasizing the importance of fundamentals. His ability to inspire students with enthusiasm and encouragement has left a lasting impression on me.
  
  Similarly, Mr. Arularasan's humble demeanor and polite teaching style made complex techniques accessible and enjoyable. He taught us not only the technical skills needed to excel in our craft but also the value of humility and respect in the artistic process.
  
  Together, they embody the qualities I aspire to emulate in my own teaching: passion, systematic instruction, and a humble approach. Their influence drives me to empower my students, sharing the knowledge and techniques I've gained while fostering a supportive and respectful learning environment.

• Tell us about your hobbies outside teaching.

  Outside of teaching, one of my greatest hobbies is traveling, particularly to the Himalayas. The breathtaking landscapes and serene environment inspire my creativity and allow me to connect with nature on a deeper level. I love exploring the stunning mountain ranges, experiencing the rich cultures, and finding peace in the tranquility of the surroundings.
  
  In addition to my travels, I enjoy painting with oils on canvas, which helps me express my thoughts and emotions. Sketching is another passion of mine; I often capture the beauty I encounter during my journeys, from landscapes to unique characters I meet along the way.
  
  I also have a deep appreciation for animation films and enjoy analyzing the artistry and storytelling techniques used in various films. This not only enriches my understanding of visual storytelling but also informs my teaching approach.
  
  Furthermore, I love reading, especially history and spiritual books. Exploring different cultures and philosophies helps me gain insights into the human experience and allows me to share valuable lessons with my students.
  
  These hobbies not only enhance my life but also inspire my teaching, allowing me to bring fresh ideas and perspectives into the classroom.

• Do you have an anecdote to tell us about your student or professional life?

  One memorable anecdote from my school days happened when I was in the 7th standard. I had poured my heart into a drawing I created at home and was eager to share it during our art period. However, when I presented it to my art teacher, he was skeptical and didn't believe that I had done it myself. He thought it was too impressive for a student my age and, in disbelief, hit me with a stick and asked me to kneel outside the classroom.
  
  In that moment, I was filled with mixed emotions-sadness, confusion, and yet a strange sense of pride. Looking back, I realize that the punishment was indirectly an honor, reflecting my teacher's recognition of my hard work. It was a pivotal moment that motivated me to continue honing my artistic skills.
  
  Now, whenever my art teacher and I cross paths, we both laugh about that incident. It serves as a valuable lesson for me: the importance of believing in young artists and encouraging their potential. As an educator, I strive to foster an environment where my students feel supported and confident in expressing their creativity.