About the Juror

Jonathan Berger earned his M.F.A. at Washington University in St. Louis. He is a native Iowan, having grown up in Iowa City, received his B.A. in fine arts and B.Ed in Arts Education at Mount Mercy University. As an avid arts educator who enjoys teaching everything from pre-kindergarten to graduate students, he believes that the arts are a vital component of education by strengthening problem-solving, building confidence, and helping students find their voice. He is also the vice-chair of the Visual Arts Commission of Cedar Rapids, where he advocates for public art, local artists, and art experiences for everyone.

As an artist, Mr. Berger investigates the ideas of “home,” history, and masculinity through the act of art-making. His intermedia practice utilizes a collaboration between traditional and digital art. His use of materials and processes are highly contemplated because they both carry significant meaning. He has exhibited nationally and internationally, including Iowa, Colorado, Michigan, South Korea, Germany, and Austria.