Matthew Van Rys

Matthew Van Rys is a Professor and Chair of the Motion Media Design department at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), where he has held academic roles since 2016. He earned an M.F.A. in Motion Media Design from SCAD and a B.A. in Art from Dordt College. His professional career spans freelance design work, corporate design roles, and adjunct teaching at Dordt College. His expertise lies in motion media, computer arts, and graphic design, with a focus on integrating creative and technical processes.

Research interests include projection techniques, digital animation, and educational pedagogy in art and design. He has presented workshops on topics like compression workflows and file preparation for projection design, reflecting his commitment to advancing technical skills in the field.

• Awards: Gutstein Prize Award, SCAD Excelsus Laureate candidate, GD USA Web Design Awards, and multiple scholarships.
• Grants/Funding: SCAD scholarships supported his M.F.A. (2015–18).

As Chair, he oversees curriculum development and faculty coordination within SCAD’s Motion Media Design program. His freelance studio, Van Rys Studios, complements his academic work with professional design projects.