Matthew A. Wigdahl

I am an educator with a passion for animation, motion graphics & interdisciplinary design. I live, teach, and make things in Wisconsin, USA.

I graduated with a Fine Arts major from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota, where my first loves were watercolor and drawing. I earned my Master of Fine Arts in Design at U.W. Stout in Menomonie Wisconsin, researching motion design and tangible user interface—while leveling up in glass, instructional installations, and cinematography along the way. As a designer, I continue my research on motion & graphic design, applied projection & display formats, 3D design & FDM printing, and instructional media design.

I am National Board certified as an elementary educator and have taught in Minnesota, Alaska, and Wisconsin. I have been awarded numerous grants, fellowships, and awards as an educator. I promote creativity and good design in education. As an educator, my goal is to design inspiring, surprising, and authentic instructional experiences for students. To this end, I draw upon my understanding of good design, the human brain, and the psychology of motivation.