From the Executive Director

If you build it, they will come…

This was the hope of MMA’s staff, board, and volunteers who collectively spent thousands of hours planning our first ever Block Party and Dance Party. But a year later, as we stood on the empty street outside the museum, awaiting the arrival of artists, vendors, and partner organizations as well as the public, we wondered, “Will anyone actually show up?” Thankfully, the resounding answer was YES.

On April 15 thousands of children, parents, students, seniors, and MMA members enjoyed drawing, dancing, writing, flower arranging, and visiting the museum. Later that evening, hundreds more came to dance together under the stars.

At the end of the night, our team left the museum exhausted but proud. We were so gratified to receive your congratulatory emails, social media posts, and hear the wonderful buzz around town. Thank you for coming— and please mark your calendars for April 6-7, 2024, the next edition of the Block Party and Dance Party as well as our Spring Fundraiser. We look forward to sharing another fun and fabulous weekend of art connecting community

In addition to the Block Party, did you know that MMA provides free admission to almost 10,000 people every year? Children and families benefit from MMA’s Free Family Fun Days, free school tours, high school mentorship programs, as well as our low-cost summer camps. Hundreds of young people and newcomers visit the museum for the first time through our free First Fridays, and all children 18 and under, students, active military and their families, and EBT card holders receive free entry all year round.

But free admission comes at a very real cost. We spend more than $100 per person/per hour to open our doors and provide the remarkable exhibits and programs you appreciate and our whole community deserves to see.

Your support is vital, so please give generously to MMA’s end of year Annual Appeal Campaign to help ensure that everyone in Monterey County can benefit from our work. Gifts of all sizes are truly appreciated and are fully tax deductible. Please visit us online to make your gift today. Thank you so much in advance for your inspiration, partnership, and support.

Please enjoy our marvelous Summer Season and this edition of Musings.

Looking forward,

Corey Madden Executive Director, Monterey Museum of Art