Matthew Medney (Iconic Arts): 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Matthew Medney is a distinguished writer, entrepreneur, and creative leader known for his significant contributions to the realms of science fiction, comics, and transmedia storytelling. As of 2025, Medney serves as the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Iconic Arts, a cutting-edge entertainment studio focused on developing next-generation franchises across various platforms, including gaming, films, television, and digital media. With a career that spans diverse creative fields, from live events to high-concept science fiction, Medney's work is characterized by innovation and a deep engagement with emerging storytelling technologies. Readers are poised to discover the intriguing journey and multifaceted achievements that define his vibrant career.

1. Early Career in Live Events

Matthew Medney's career began in the live events industry, where he honed his skills as a tour and production manager. He traveled across 45 countries, contributing to prestigious events such as Coachella, Ultra Music Festival, and Lollapalooza. His experience in orchestrating large-scale productions laid the foundation for his future endeavors in creative and collaborative projects.

2. Leadership at Heavy Metal Magazine

Medney served as the CEO of Heavy Metal Magazine from 2019 until 2023, during which he sought to revitalize the brand as a cornerstone of science fiction, fantasy, and horror storytelling. His tenure at Heavy Metal was marked by efforts to expand the magazine's influence in the digital age, emphasizing original content and collaborations with prominent creatives.

3. Founding of Iconic Arts

In 2023, Medney co-founded Iconic Arts, an entertainment venture studio aimed at establishing transformative intellectual property across multiple media platforms. The studio's innovative approach employs advanced technologies to develop and market-test new properties, standing at the intersection of storytelling and Silicon Valley-style entrepreneurship.

4. Literary Contributions and Successes

As an author, Medney has penned several acclaimed works including "Beyond Kuiper: The Galactic Star Alliance," which became an Amazon #1 bestseller. His narrative style blends scientific accuracy with imaginative storytelling, engaging readers in expansive, multidimensional universes.

5. Innovation in Transmedia Storytelling

Iconic Arts, under Medney's creative leadership, is pioneering the use of proprietary AI tools to streamline the creation of transmedia content. This technology facilitates the rapid prototyping and development of game worlds, reducing production time and costs while enhancing creative output across media formats.

6. Role at Gungnir Entertainment

Medney is also recognized for his involvement with Gungnir Entertainment, a publishing house dedicated to speculative fiction and graphic novels. Gungnir aims to foster new creative ecosystems, reflecting Medney's commitment to expanding the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

7. Collaborations with Influential Artists & Brands

Matthew Medney's projects often involve collaborations with high-profile artists and brands. He has worked with the likes of Floyd Mayweather, comic book creatives, and major music festivals to produce immersive, narrative-driven experiences that connect with diverse audiences.

8. Strategic Vision for Iconic Arts

At Iconic Arts, Medney is at the forefront of integrating brand partnerships into storytelling. The company's partnerships with entities such as Suntory Holdings exemplify its innovative model of brand-financed entertainment, enhancing both narrative depth and brand visibility.

9. Educational Background and Influences

A graduate of the University of Massachusetts' Isenberg School of Management, Medney's educational background in management complements his dynamic approach to running creative enterprises. His trajectory is influenced by a passion for merging creative storytelling with strategic business acumen.

10. Future Prospects and Continuing Impact

Looking ahead, Medney aims to solidify Iconic Arts as a leader in the entertainment industry's new era, defined by seamless integration across media formats. His ongoing projects continue to push creative boundaries, offering fresh, engaging narratives that resonate with global audiences.

Conclusion

Matthew Medney embodies the innovative spirit of contemporary storytelling through his multifaceted career in writing, publishing, and transmedia development. From his work revitalizing iconic brands like Heavy Metal Magazine to leading the charge at Iconic Arts, Medney's influence extends across the landscape of modern entertainment. As audiences anticipate future projects and collaborations, his dedication to the art of storytelling remains ever impactful and inspiring.