Art Major

Ryan Kitchen is currently pursuing an MFA at the Maryland Institute College of Art’s Hoffberger School of Painting, suggested by Luther’s very own assistant professor of art, Ben Moore. The Maryland Institute has given him a steady amount of opportunities for gallery shows, displaying his artwork for at least six major exhibitions, including a solo exhibition in 2013, Ryan Nord Kitchen: New Things. After graduation he hopes to be accepted to an artist residency to keep him busy and encourage his studio practice. He expects to graduate in 2014.  

Did you come to Luther College with the intention of majoring in art?

I decided in high school that I wanted to pursue my interests in art. After looking at various art schools, I decided Luther’s liberal arts environment suited my wide-spread interests best.

What is your current career path in art?

I am now beginning my last semester at Maryland Institute College of Art's Hoffberger School of Painting.  I am getting my MFA.  I am applying to residencies and fellowships to keep me busy once I graduate.  The program was suggested to me by my Luther professor Ben Moore.

How does your art major inform your career? How did it help you get to where you are?

I realized during my time at Luther that a daily studio practice is what keeps me going. Having access to a studio as an undergrad changed my thoughts on what it meant to be a painter.

What is the most important thing you took away from studying art at Luther?

The confidence that I can paint for the rest of my life.

More information about Ryan Nord Kitchen and his work can be found on his website.