Michael Matsuda, the founder of the Martial Arts History Museum in Glendale, California, has released a new autobiography that chronicles the 27-year journey of building a sanctuary for martial arts history. The book, available on Amazon in softcover and hardbound formats for $25, offers a personal look at the sacrifices and triumphs involved in preserving the legacy of martial arts masters.
Matsuda's path to becoming a guardian of history began long before the museum. He worked as a graphic designer for Walt Disney Productions, published magazines, and wrote non-fiction books. However, a deeper calling emerged from his six decades of martial arts practice and instruction. Recognizing that the stories behind icons like Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, and Jackie Chan could be lost without a dedicated institution, Matsuda and his wife Karen sacrificed their personal livelihood to establish the museum.
The museum's journey has been marked by extreme highs and devastating lows, including relocations and the massive undertaking of digitally archiving thousands of historical photographs. Matsuda's autobiography captures these experiences, offering readers a firsthand account of how a former designer and publisher became the head of a vital cultural institution. The book is filled with personal stories and rare pictures, making it an accessible read for anyone interested in martial arts history.
Proceeds from the book support the museum's mission to preserve Asian culture, tradition, and artistry. For more information, visit MichaelMatsuda.com or MAmuseum.com.
The announcement of the autobiography comes at a time when cultural institutions face challenges in maintaining relevance and funding. By sharing his personal story, Matsuda hopes to inspire others to support the preservation of history. The museum itself stands as a testament to the dedication required to keep the legacies of martial arts masters alive for future generations.
