Background
My name is Maria Rebeca Santos Chavez, a Visual Communications major graduated from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. I was born and raised in Cuernavaca, Morelos, México, where I completed my primary education. I began my higher education journey at the School of Art and Design at UTRGV in 2021.
My professional career started in 2022 with RATES, a non-for-profit that turns research into community resilience, as a student assistant through a partnership with UTRGV. I then worked for the College of Sciences at UTRGV as a digital student assistant, in which I got experience as web developer, project manager, and team leadership.
Inspirations
Nature and nostalgia are central themes in my artwork, with my culture also playing a significant role. Growing up in a town known as "the city of the Eternal Spring" has deeply influenced my affinity for organic shapes, and natural elements in my designs. If I were to describe my style, it would be a vibrant, warm collection of shades - Mexican pink, rich greens, and the colors of the sunset.
Some of the software programs from the Adobe Suite I use in a regular basis include Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, XD, Premiere Pro, and Adobe Lightroom Classic.
Mission
"As a visual communicator and marketer, I strive to connect the research field with the public in an accessible, effective, and user-friendly manner. I want to highlight the importance of welcoming visual communicators and creative minds into the scientific research communities. It is imperative for creatives to tap into an interdisciplinary approach for the arts. During my formative years in college, I was able to strengthen my abilities as visual communicator with a focus on creating compelling infographics. I also aim to continue pursuing my higher education to become a well-rounded artist.
Awards
UDA Annual Int'l Design Competition 2024. Silver Award for "Mexico: Estado Feminicida"
Exhibitions
5th Annual Will in Weslaco, "Midsummer Nights Dream Art Exhibition", April 6-20, 2023. Participant.
"Archives of Fashion" by House of Fashion Club at UTRGV, April 28-May 9, 2025. Curator.
"GOT ART?" Group Exhibit for Undergraduate Students at UTRGV. Sponsored by ESAA. June 23-July 12, 2025. Curator and Participant.
Adobe Software used
