Joseph Daun was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and his journey as an artist began with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photography from Florida State University in 1990. Driven by a fascination with the possibilities of both photography and sculpture, he continued his studies at The University of Texas at San Antonio, where he earned his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Sculpture and Photography in 1994.
Daun has had a distinguished teaching career, contributing to the art departments of numerous universities. His early teaching appointments included roles at The University of Texas at San Antonio and The New York College of Ceramics at Alfred University. He also served on the faculties of Texas Lutheran University, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, Georgetown College, the University of Central Oklahoma, and Texas A&M University-Commerce. Demonstrating his commitment to arts leadership, Daun has held department head positions at NYSCC, GC, UCO, and TAMUC, where he played an integral role in shaping academic programs and fostering artistic innovation.
Beyond academia, Daun has actively participated in the art community as a gallery director at Georgetown College, where he curated exhibits that expanded the reach of contemporary art. Additionally, he was one of the founding members of a student-run art space in the Blue Star Arts Complex in San Antonio, Texas, a hub for emerging artists and experimental work that has become a vital part of the city’s arts culture.
Daun’s own art has been recognized in numerous exhibitions across the country. Notable venues include ArtPace in San Antonio, Hallwalls Contemporary Art Center in Buffalo, New York, and DiverseWorks in Houston. His works have also been showcased at Fotuhi Cramer Gallery in New York City, highlighting his presence in the contemporary art world.
Today, Daun resides in Greenville, Texas, with his wife, Alicia, and their three children: Aiden, Josie, and Jayden. He continues to work daily in his studio, creating sculptures and photo-based artworks that reflect his deep engagement with materiality and form. Through his teaching, exhibitions, and leadership roles, Daun has made significant contributions to both the academic and visual arts communities.