My device will be non-kinetic (it's going to be screwed to my office wall :)) the "POV" comes into it when you consider that only 1 led will be lit at any given moment. It will be like a very small, low-res TV set in essence.
I can hear you all thinking "What is this idiot talking about and why is he doing this stupid project?", Yeah I know. I'm only doing this as a means to an end... to teach myself about the various aspects of electronics design and manufacture - I'm a hobbyist and nothing more.
This thing will simply be a one-off, just to see if I can see a project from end to end.
Thanks for the hints about veroboard and the turned pins idea. I think that's the only way I can realistically do this.
I've been measuring things up and I can arrange the LEDS on a 7.62mm (full metal jacket anyone? :)) square grid if I skip 2 rows between leds horizontally and 1 row vertically. I think the skipped rows will allow me to trace the anode/cathodes without too much trouble, but it will be a HUGE amount of soldering.
With that in mind I think I'll try to get hold of some 8"x4", double-sided copper clad perfboard, at least that will make the traces easier to route, plus i won't have to drill it myself.
Well thanks for your help guys, I appreciate your valuable time and knowledge! 
Cheers.