Oral History Interview with Michael Platt

Artist and educator Michael B. Platt is interviewed by Samir Meghelli as part of the research for the Anacostia Community Museum's A Right to the City exhibition. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Platt discusses changing aspects of D.C., his early life and family, his introduction to the arts, education, time spent with A New Thing Art and Architecture Center, career, travel experiences, and notable individuals with whom he has been involved. Platt attended Smothers Elementary School, Wilson Junior High School, and Spingarn High School. He later he attended both the Columbus School of Art and Design in Ohio and Howard University. Platt comments on the various neighborhoods of Washington, D.C. and their respective qualities, including thoughts on gentrification. Platt discusses his career in education, including Northern Virginia Community College, Duke Ellington School for the Arts, Corcoran School of the Arts, and Howard University. He comments on how teaching has affected his creative process and direction, as well as careers in the arts generally. He talks about his time as a designer, illustrator, and teacher for A New Thing Art and Architecture Center where he designed posters for many organizations. Platt discusses many notable individuals such as Percy Martin, Topper Carew, Howlin' Wolf, Francine Haskins, Malkia Roberts, Bernard Brooks, Lloyd McNeill, Barnett Williams, and Melvin Deal. Audio is clear.