The Monterey Museum of Art was founded in 1959 and exists to inspire creativity, connect communities and celebrate the stories of California art. Its permanent collection holds more than 10,000 works, and it presents 15 to 20 exhibitions each year to over 24,000 visitors. The museum offers programs for schools, educators, families and adults, including tours, artist workshops, sketching sessions in the galleries and a free family fun day. It also hosts events such as First Friday and curator talks.