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Dan Widerski helps bring big ideas to life.

 

With 25 years of museum exhibition experience and roots in entertainment industry, he's the project manager who says "Yes, AND here's how we do it" rather than simply identifying what won't work.

 

Dan's career began in the high-energy world of theater and film production in Minneapolis during the 1990s, where he fabricated sets for everything from Prince music videos and Best Buy commercials to setting up national concert tours featuring Frank Sinatra and Guns N' Roses. That environment demanded creative problem-solving under pressure—a skill set that has defined his approach to museum work since 2000.

 

Dan's experience ranges from small projects to multi-million dollar installations as well as working with federal agencies, private foundations, and world-class design firms. While he's equipped to handle projects of any scale, his preference is for permanent exhibitions that create lasting experiences for visitors. His attention to construction detail and extensive network within the museum community allows him to navigate complex projects while keeping teams aligned on timelines and budgets. His sweet spot is working alongside visionary designers to solve the technical challenges that stand between concept and completed exhibition. This collaborative approach has led to work on some of the nation's most significant museum projects.

 

Recently, Dan has consulted with the Obama Presidential Center Foundation on cost analysis and value engineering for their exhibition program, set to open in spring 2026.  In 2014, he was deeply engaged with the Smithsonian, contributing to the inaugural exhibits at the National Museum of African American History and Culture (designed by Ralph Appelbaum and fabricated by Design and Production).  He is currently working on exhibitions being produced by Smithsonian Exhibits such as Voices and Votes at AIB, American Aspirations Exhibit at the Smithsonian Castle (both part of the America 250 Celebration in 2026).

 

Dan is based in the DC area and a member of the American Alliance of Museums, Dan stays connected to his craft through volunteer work with Reston Community Players, where he designs, builds, and serves as technical director for community theater productions. This hands-on work is more than a hobby—it's a reminder that whether building for the Smithsonian or a local stage, the core challenge remains the same: honor the creative vision while solving the practical problems that stand in the way.

 

Dan is looking for his next collaboration with designers and institutions who have ambitious ideas and need a partner who can help navigate from concept to completion with creativity, realism, and a genuine commitment to making great work happen.