Matthew is an experienced and passionate art educator who believes in the transformative power of arts education. With a Master's Degree in Fine Art from the University of North Dakota and over 15 years of experience in the field, he is committed to advocating for and promoting the importance of art education for all learners.
As the Arts in Education Director for the North Dakota Council on the Arts (NDCA), Matthew strives to provide high-quality arts education programs that enhance the lives of every student in North Dakota and build stronger communities. He firmly believes that art education is essential to a community's overall health and well-being, allowing individuals to explore and express their ideas, connect with others, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving. These are skills that are fundamental for success in life. He has witnessed how communities come together to celebrate the arts, creating lively and dynamic cultural scenes that attract visitors from all over the world.
Matthew works closely with educators and community leaders to expand access to art education for all students. He is looking forward to continuing to build strong relationships with educators, artists, and community leaders throughout North Dakota and beyond, collaborating with them to develop innovative programs and initiatives that bring the benefits of arts education to everyone.
As a proud North Dakotan, Matthew understands the importance of community and the role that the arts can play in bringing people together. When he's not advocating for arts education, he enjoys hiking and biking in the great outdoors, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty of the state he calls home.
NDCA Executive Director Kim Konikow said, "We are very pleased to have Matthew join the NDCA team, and look forward to sharing his enthusiasm for arts in education across the state!” Matthew will be responsible for the following NDCA programs: Artist in Residence, Arts in Education Collaboration, Teacher Professional Development, and Poetry Out Loud.
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The North Dakota Council on the Arts is the state agency responsible for the support and development of the arts throughout North Dakota and is funded by the state legislature and the National Endowment for the Arts.