Local martial arts enthusiasts got an up-close-and-personal look at the world of Marital Arts during an exhibit presented by the Martial Arts History Museum’s at the Valencia Public Library on January 13. Museum founder Michael Matsuda, a sixth generation Monkey Kung Fu Master, was on hand to discuss and showcase treasures from his soon-be-opened Martial Arts History Museum.
“This will be the First Martial Arts Museum in the world,” explained Matsuda who brought along some artifacts that will be on display at the museum. “The martial arts is not just about the punch and kick, but it is about understanding and learning the traditions of honor, discipline and endurance emphasized Matsuda. Special guest, James Lew, stuntman for the upcoming Pirates of the Caribbean 3 revealed a few of his on-camera secrets. Matsuda is currently finalizing plans to establish a permanent home for his museum.
For more information, call 818 355-1109 or visit the website at www.MAmuseum.com.
1: Martial Arts History Museum Founder, Michael Matsuda with local sculptor Richard Wade.
2: Cameron Dann, Eric Ballew David Burgett and Drew Smith
3: Stuntman Mike Cassidy, Michael Matsuda and action stuntman James Lew
4: James Lew directs local youngster Gab Reva in an imagined movie scene.
5: Roman and Dylan Brown get autographs from James Lew.
6: Sword historian Rafael Kosche, a museum board member, conducts a short seminar on the history of the Samurai sword.
7: A costume, worn by Monkey Kung Fu Martial Arts History Museum Hall of Famer, Paulie Zink in the Chinese Opera, Journey to the West, was on display as part of the exhibit.