Information Studies Colloquium: “Art as a Tool for Empowerment and Social Change” with Professor Michael Massenburg

Please join us for our next IS Colloquium on February 20, 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the Reading Room, 3340 Moore Hall. There will be refreshments to follow. 

Abstract
Michael Massenburg uses art as a tool for empowerment and social change by exploring themes of
Black identity, culture, and social justice. His work challenges stereotypes and celebrates African
American experiences, fostering pride and resilience within marginalized communities. Massenburg
addresses systemic oppression through mixed media paintings and public art, encouraging dialogue on
inequality and social transformation.
Massenburg also views art as a tool for healing, allowing individuals to process trauma and find
empowerment through creative expression.
Through mentorship, Massenburg inspires younger generations to use art for activism and change,
encouraging them to challenge the status quo and amplify their voices. His art serves as both a
reflection of personal and collective strength and a catalyst for social progress.

Bio
MichaelMassenburg was born in San Diego, raised in South Central Los Angeles, and lives in Inglewood. He pursued his studies at California State University, Long Beach, and the Otis School of Art and Design. Michael began his career at the Watts Towers Arts Center, influenced by the Watts Rebellion, the Black Art Movement of the 1960s, and the 1992 Los Angeles Uprising. He developed his social practice through art-making, teaching, lectures, community organizing, and activism for various organizations and causes. Massenburg’s interest is in historical, cultural, and personal narratives. His art practice fluctuates between painting, collage, photography, and assemblage. He incorporated various materials from found objects with traditional practices. Michael has exhibited in galleries, universities, and museums, completed private commissions, and created public art projects throughout the United States and abroad. One of his most recent exhibitions was for the Dak’Art 14th Edition Biennial of Contemporary African Art in Dakar, Senegal. Some of his work included public art commissions for Metro, DCA, Kia Forum, and the Intuit Dome in Inglewood. He receives various grants and awards, including the Art Matters Foundation, New York, Los Angeles Lakers Youth Foundation, and California Arts Council. He was recently honored by the city of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs COLA Individual Master Artist Project Grantee for an exhibition for summer 2023.