Hey fellow newbie!
That's a long first post, and it looks like you've set yourself a lot of work!
For a start, type "LED matrix" into the field at the top right corner of the page you're looking at. You will see lots of past posts from people trying to use them. Scan through for anything that makes sense to you.
As for your construction method: No ideas yet. If I get an idea I'll post again. My current project doesn't use LEDs.
I'm sure others will offer help. If it's slow coming, 1) ask one thing at a time. 2) give enough detail so we can visualise what you're doing.
And keep trying!