Motion Light Lab (ML2) is a space where
creative literature meets digital technology to create immersive learning experiences.

Made by Deaf for the Deaf

We are a part of the Visual Language and Visual Learning Center (VL2).
You can find us at Gallaudet University, Washington D.C.

Motion Light Lab engages in a wide range of research and development projects including:

  • The development and distribution of bilingual storybook apps

    • Creating original bilingual storybook apps with ASL and English

    • Training Deaf creators to develop their own storybook apps

    • Hosting ASL storytime sessions in schools, libraries, and bookstores

    • Providing resources to support bilingual learning at home and in classrooms with ASL Literacy Activities

  • The creation of advanced 3D signing avatars through motion capture technology

    • Designing lifelike 3D signing avatars for storytelling and learning

    • Creating animated episodes, films, and shorts entirely in sign language—like Here Comes Mavo! and Dimensions: Episode One

    • Bringing signing avatars into VR and AR experiences

    • Pushing Hollywood motion capture technology forward by centering Deaf perspectives

Meet the Team

  • Melissa Malzkuhn

    FOUNDER & DIRECTOR

  • Lorna Quandt

    SCIENCE DIRECTOR

  • Tayla Newman

    PROJECT MANAGER

  • Jason Lamberton

    HUMAN COMPUTER INTERACTIVE ENGINEER

  • Jianye Wang

    3D ANIMATOR

  • Yiqiao Wang

    CREATIVE DESIGNER
    SENIOR ARTIST

  • Silvia Palmieri

    MOTION GRAPHIC
    DESIGNER / VISUAL DESIGNER

  • Leila Sicoli

    GRADUATE ASSISTANT

  • Sofia Giansanti

    Sofia Giansanti

    UNDERGRADUATE ASSISTANT

  • Pearlene Utley

    GRADUATE ASSISTANT

  • Gianna Visco

    UNDERGRADUATE ASSISTANT

  • Many Deaf children around the world face language deprivation due to delayed or limited exposure to a fully accessible language like sign language. This can lead to long-term impacts on cognitive development, academic success, and mental health. Ensuring early access to sign language is critical for healthy development and lifelong learning.

  • Digital tools have the potential to bridge communication gaps for Deaf individuals when designed with accessibility in mind. From sign language avatars to bilingual storybook apps, even enhanced captions and haptic feedback, new technologies are opening doors to greater communication and inclusion. However, Deaf-led input and design remain essential to ensure these technologies are truly inclusive—and that’s where we come in!

  • Global data shows that over 70 million Deaf people use sign language as their primary language, yet many are excluded from education and health access due to communication barriers. From World Federation of the Deaf: “Globally, 2% of deaf children receive education in sign language.” Studies reveal that early sign language access correlates with higher literacy rates and better life outcomes. Continued research and Deaf-led data collection are vital to inform effective policy and practice.

Latest News, Press Releases and Blogs

  • Melissa Malzkuhn Wins Elevate Prize!

    Melissa is recognized for her work addressing language deprivation. We thank the Elevate Prize Foundation for their support.

    #MakeGoodFamous

    See Why She Won

  • “Here Comes Mavo!” Featured on Forbes

    “Where Apple has CODA and El Deafo, Melissa Malzkuhn and Marina Martins have Here Comes Mavo!”

    The series centers sign language and Deaf culture.

    Read More on Forbes

  • “Dimensions: Episode One” Now Streaming!

    After her astronaut mother vanishes, 12-year-old Zoe—a Deaf girl—sets out on a mission to find her mother. First episode now streaming on YouTube!

    Watch Now!
  • The ML2xSAAM team poses inside the museum. There are 10 people in this photo. All of them are smiling towards the camera.

    Smithsonian Art Museum Collaboration

    We partnered with the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) for their Musical Thinking exhibit! We supported with ASL translation, haptics, and more.

    Go Behind the Scenes

See What Community Members Are Saying

  • 💛 💛 💛

    "Decades of research on language acquisition underscore the critical importance of early exposure to language. Yet, there's a void in children's entertainment for those who need sign language. Here Comes Mavo! aims to bridge this gap, providing access to language for Deaf children and fostering inclusivity."

    Learn More

  • 💛 💛 💛

    "Gallaudet University, Pigmental Studios Launch "Here Comes Mavo!" - First Children's Animated Television Series Featuring Deaf Protagonist, 3D Avatars Using Sign Language"

    Read More

  • 💛 💛 💛

    "Here Comes Mavo! isn't just an animated series; it's a movement creating ripples of change in the entertainment industry. The groundbreaking technology, developed by a Deaf team at Motion Light Lab, sets the stage for a future where inclusivity is not just a goal but a reality."

    Learn more

Follow us:

Happening right now in Jacksonville, Florida: the national Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) conference. We are proud to present our poster on ECHO training for healthcare providers ensuring optimal language development for Deaf and har
🐷 George from Peppa Pig is exploring the world in a new way with his hearing assistive device. It's time he meets Mavo, the first ASL signing animation star created by ML2 at Gallaudet University ✨ 
 Representation matters: when children see diverse

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