Matt Smith has worked at the Museum of Art & Archaeology (MA&A) since 2014 when he joined the staff to help rebuild the museum after its relocation from campus to Mizzou North. Since then, he has held the position of preparator and exhibitions specialist, managing the safe and effective display of works from the MA&A’s permanent collection and those that are on loan to the museum. Smith designs and builds mounts, pedestals, and frames, handles matting, and prepares all other aspects of exhibition design, including painting, lighting, and any related video and sound. Smith holds a dual B.S. in Geology and Soil Science from the University of Missouri and is a member of PACCIN (Preparation, Art Handling and Collections Care Information Network). In 2024, Smith was recognized by Mizzou’s College or Arts and Science as Outstanding Staff Member of the Year. Before joining the MA&A, Smith worked for the U.S. Geological Survey, then pursued his long-standing passion for craft through fine furniture and cabinet making. Smith has worked with many Columbia arts organizations, including serving on the production and art installation team for the True/False Film Festival, volunteer work for the Columbia Art League and on the advisory committee at the Montminy Gallery. Smith’s upbringing on a farm in northwest Missouri helped shape his appreciation for the natural world, hands-on and crafts-based work.