Matthew Simmons

Matthew Simmons is a seasoned professional in the animation and visual effects industry, currently serving as Creative Director and Principal Tech Artist at Hi-Rez Ventures since July 2021. Prior experience includes roles as CG Supervisor and Visual Effects Supervisor at Blue Sky Studios, where contributions were made to notable projects such as the unreleased film "Nimona" and "Spies in Disguise." Simmons also held the position of Animation Technical Lead on several feature films, including "Ferdinand" and multiple titles in the "Ice Age" and "Rio" franchises. Additionally, experience as a professor at the School of Visual Arts involved instructing senior-level students in the technical execution of their Short Film thesis projects. Simmons holds a BFA in Animation and Drawing from Bowling Green State University, earned between 1998 and 2002.