Faith, Creativity, and the Classroom: A Q&A with Artist and Teacher Nathan Stromberg ’96

Education
Bethel University, BA, Art and Art Education; Art Institute of Boston, MFA, Visual Arts 

Hometown
Born and raised in Massachusetts; MA Upper School graduate; proud Saint Paulite 

Years At Minnehaha Academy
24 

Classes Taught 
Fundamentals of Art and Design; Drawing; Painting; Graphic Design; Ceramics; Sculpture; AP Studio Art; designing and building theater sets and props 

Interests and Hobbies
Making art; playing and watching basketball; building stuff; canoeing; hiking; jogging; playing guitar and bass; listening to music; reading

Family
Wife, Kara
Son, Benjamin '24
Daughter, Greta '25
Daughter, Juniper '31
Dog, Ollie
Various houseplants

Q&A

Q. What do you love about your job? 

I love introducing students to the creative process and providing an environment for them to let their imaginations go. It's wonderful to see what they create and to come alongside them to encourage and push them toward things they didn't know they could do.

Q. How do faith, imagination, and storytelling intersect in both your studio work and your teaching?

In my collage practice, I trust that fragments of old papers and images can come together to provide a new narrative, even when the connections aren't obvious at first. In the classroom, I share that same sense of curiosity and risk-taking, helping students shape their own experiences into visual narratives while discovering the joy and possibility of creative experimentation. God is the great creator, and we are made in the image of God. We, then, are creators.

 Q. How does being a practicing, exhibiting artist influence the way you teach art in the classroom? 

Teaching in the fine arts is all about practicing what you preach. In our department, we're all involved in our own creative expressive pursuits outside the classroom. Making art keeps me curious and focused on constant improvement, a mindset I want my students to develop as well. 

Q. What do you hope students understand about what a life in the arts can realistically look like? 

Visual art is often seen as something you can't really make a career out of, but it's so important. Creativity is essential, and the risk-taking, goal-setting, and personal ownership that come from bringing an idea to life are skills that can be used anywhere—and they can make life more rewarding and enjoyable.

Q. How do you talk with students about persistence, critique, and failure—especially in creative work? 

Salvador Dalí once wisely said, "Have no fear of perfection. You will never reach it." In terms of art, there is enormous freedom in embracing failure and the creative process. When failure is no longer something that scares you, every part of creating becomes a chance to improve and grow deeper. Critique and open dialogue are essential for generating feedback and sparking creativity.

Q. If you could design your dream field trip for your class, where would you take them and why? 

I actually get to do this every couple of years! An enormous perk to teaching at MA has been leading CFE trips. This year I get to teach about art and architecture in Rome, Athens, and Istanbul. Nothing beats talking about a work of art while standing in front of the actual thing.

Q. What gives you hope? 

The students I teach! In a world that's increasingly devoid of hope, deep down they crave authentic connection and meaningful experiences. It's beautiful to come alongside them in their formation as unique and creative individuals.