Matthew Mohr Obituary, Death Columbus, OH: It is with deep sorrow that the Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD) community mourns the loss of Matthew Mohr, beloved retired Chair and Professor of Graphic Design. Matthew passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy that transcends his professional accolades and is etched deeply in the hearts of his students, colleagues, and the broader Columbus arts community.
Matthew Mohr joined CCAD in 2011, returning to his roots in Ohio after a distinguished and dynamic career in New York. With his return, he brought a wealth of industry experience and a passion for nurturing creative minds. Over more than a decade, he became a guiding force at CCAD, not only as an educator but as a mentor, a leader, and an inspiration. Known for his thoughtful presence, impeccable style, and infectious curiosity, Matthew encouraged students to not just design, but to wonder—to approach their work with imagination, empathy, and boldness.
Beyond the classroom, Matthew’s vision extended into the public sphere through his iconic interactive art. His best-known work, As We Are, stands prominently at the Columbus Convention Center. The sculpture, with its 14-foot-tall human head displaying real-time, 3D portraits of visitors, has become a cultural landmark, a celebration of individuality, and a conversation starter about identity and technology. Another notable project, Lightning Sprites, brought solar-powered, whimsical figures to life—art that combined environmental awareness with a sense of play and wonder.
While his professional achievements are significant, those who knew Matthew best remember his personal impact as his most powerful contribution. He was a professor who truly listened—who made time, offered guidance, and stood by his students as they navigated both their education and their early careers. He was known for championing student voices, encouraging exploration, and celebrating both big milestones and small victories.
Matthew also fostered a close-knit, supportive environment among faculty and staff. His leadership style was marked by generosity, humility, and a steadfast commitment to the college’s mission of shaping creative leaders. His absence will be profoundly felt by alumni, colleagues, and the many artists and designers in Columbus and beyond who were influenced by his teaching and example.
As we reflect on the life and work of Matthew Mohr, we celebrate a man who believed in the power of design to change lives—not only through what we create, but through how we connect. His legacy will live on in the work of his students, in the art that graces public spaces, and in the memories of those fortunate enough to learn from and alongside him.
Matthew Mohr will be dearly missed, but his vision, kindness, and passion will continue to inspire generations to come.
