Martial Arts World News Magazine - Volume 23 | Issue 3

COVER STORY
It was on September 15, 1999 that the only museum dedicated
to the martial arts was established. Spearheaded by former magazine
publisher and martial arts veteran of fifty-plus years Michael
Matsuda, it began as a traveling exhibit until landing in a brick
and mortar facility in 2006. Celebrating its 21st year, the museum
resides now in the city of Burbank, the motion picture industry
capital of the world.
Although there have been bumps and bruises along the road,
the museum has gained such notoriety that it has been featured on
every major media outlet in America. From a variety of television
news channels, to live coverage for its events to commercials and
magazine articles, the Martial Arts History Museum has become a
new addition to the “bucket list” for the martial arts enthusiast.
Through this article, we take you for an in-depth look at the
Martial Arts History Museum and a man who has been referred
to as the “Walt Disney” of the martial arts, museum president and
founder Michael Matsuda.
The Walt Disney Effect
Walt Disney is considered perhaps the “most creative” individual
on the planet. Through his ingenuity, his creativity, his
perseverance, and tenacity, he was able to build an empire from a
small little mouse. Walt Disney, through his own creatively inspired
methodology, was able to establish the “Happiest Place on Earth.”
Although a leaf in comparison to Disney’s oak tree, the Martial
Arts History Museum has become the home of the martial arts
community worldwide. Designed through Matsuda’s eyes and creativity,
it is filled with art, history, culture, and tradition. It is the only
place in the world that the history of the martial arts is preserved,
celebrated, and honored.
“I am a very creative person, and in my 53 years in the martial
arts, I found there isn’t much in the way of creativity. Most martial
arts events are all the same; there is so little imagination in
our presentations, our logos and our awards. When I made the
decision to go forward with the museum, I wanted to be like Walt
Disney, coincidently I was a Disney graphic artist back in the 70s,
but I wanted that same feeling for the museum. It shouldn’t be a
bunch of pictures hanging on the walls with unmatching frames, or
uniforms on just hangers or worse, pinned to the walls; it had to be
inspiring, professional, and full of imagination,” notes Matsuda. “To
be even slightly compared to Walt Disney is a huge honor, and I
thank the handful of people that called me that.”
Matsuda Strives for Near “Disney Like” Exhibits and Displays that Leave a Lasting, Positive Impression on Guests
38 MARTIAL ARTS WORLD NEWS VOLUME 23 | ISSUE 3