Today we’d like to introduce you to Marina Shterenberg
Hi Marina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My life is like a tapestry, intricately woven from threads of seemingly random events into a fabric that embodies my passion and purpose—to live a healthy and creative life while inspiring others. Growing up in Ukraine, I would spend hours alone, lost in drawing. Recognizing my interest, my grandmother took me to an art studio, where I was given large sheets of paper and a portfolio. I must have been only five when I realized I wanted to be an artist. Years later, as a student at Parsons School of Design in New York City, I walked into a job office. A counselor, flipping through her thick book of offerings, asked, “Have you thought about teaching?” And just like that, a simple question marked the beginning of my journey as a teacher. When I first traveled to India, I intended to study Yantra painting. Instead, my teacher instructed me to chant mantras every morning and night for a year before he would teach me about painting. I followed his guidance and, in the process discovered my own voice. Not long after moving to Dallas, someone asked if I could teach their son how to draw. That request led to the founding of a school inside my home. At a house party in San Francisco, I tasted homemade ketchup and discovered my passion for fresh, vibrant flavors. This moment sparked my journey into the raw vegan lifestyle. As I reflect on my life, I see how these small, seemingly insignificant moments have shaped the person I am today.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I think I actually thrive on challenges. To me, a challenge feels like a door leading to something more intriguing, so I often leap into tasks that are difficult or seem impossible. Two persistent challenges have followed me throughout my life. The first is not allowing the fear of failure to prevent me from pursuing what I want. The second is finding enough time to play and create in the studio. It’s as if these challenges are the universe’s way of constantly asking: How much do you believe in yourself?
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
In many ways, I am my own brand. People come to learn art from me, drawn by the way I see the world. I’m a perceptive teacher with a gift for helping my students discover their unique voice. I founded Kitchen28 (formerly known as Cosmic Container), a creative oasis for both children and adults, offering art studio classes, workshops, art exhibitions, and retreats. The school is flourishing thanks to a team of talented artists, designers, and teachers who are passionate about their work. What sets us apart is our focus on building individual connections with students and nurturing independent, imaginative thinking. Envisioning all that the school can become fuels my enthusiasm and gives me strength when things aren’t easy.
How do you define success?
I create everything for my own pleasure and fun, but it’s incredible when something I make inspires others too. To me, success is about human connection—those moments of mutual understanding when it feels like you get me, and I get you. Success often brings joy and excitement because it feels like all the variables of life come together in a beautiful way. When something I create becomes a bridge that connects me to others, I feel the strong desire to celebrate.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thekitchen28.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitchen28studio/
Image Credits
Christin Astelle Rupert
