May - Sept 2025: Monterey Museum of Art Inaugural Biennial Exhibition

Big Sur Beauty, 24x36, oil on linen — Big Sur Beauty, 24×36, oil on linen

Aligned with its Mission to celebrate the diversity of California art, Monterey Museum of Art (MMA) is delighted to announce the launch of the Monterey Biennial. Contemporary artists living in Fresno, Kern, Kings, Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz, and San Luis Obispo Counties were eligible for this groundbreaking exhibition celebrating Central California’s diverse and dynamic talent. The juried exhibition will be on view May 15 – August 31, 2025, at MMA’s Pacific Street location. I am so pleased that my painting Big Sur Beauty was accepted for this exhibition.

MMA seeks to honor the achievements of the Monterey Biennial artists and showcase the incredible talent of Central California. MMA will host a vibrant lineup of social events and programs designed to highlight the creativity of the artists from the seven counties. Here are some of the events. (I hope you can attend some of the celebrations, and find me to say “Hi.”)

Monterey Biennial Opening Celebration
Saturday, May 17 | 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Free public event

Monterey Biennial artists, friends, and families are invited to join the exhibition opening at Monterey Museum of Art—Pacific Street! Enjoy beverages and light bites in MMA’s Sculpture Garden and spend time in the galleries exploring the exhibition. This special event honors the diverse and dynamic talent of artists from the seven represented counties, showcasing their impact on Central California’s artistic community.

MMA First Friday
Friday, June 6 | 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Free public event

Enjoy an evening at MMA filled with music, local food and beverages, and interactive art activities for all ages. This special Biennial-themed First Friday will bring the exhibition to life with hands-on experiences tied to the artwork on view. The Museum welcomes you, friends, and family for an evening to enjoy the talent of Central California.

Free Family Fun Day
Saturday, June 7 | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Free public event

Bring the whole family to downtown historic Monterey for a FREE fun-filled day of creativity, community, and celebration. Stop by MMA to create art inspired by the Monterey Biennial and engage with the exhibition in a brand-new creative setting. Around town, explore historic Monterey by visiting community partners including Monterey Public Library, Cooper-Molera Adobe, and the Monterey State Historic Park Association to participate in workshops, performances, pop-ups, and more creative community fun!

Biennial Juror Panel Discussion
Saturday, June 21 | 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Public event | Ticket information coming soon

Join us at the Museum for an afternoon of conversation with Biennial Jurors Demetri Broxton, Ann Jastrab, and Hector Dionicio Mendoza. Dive into the creative minds behind the Biennial’s review process and learn more about these distinguished members of California’s art scene.

FREE Museum Admission
Every Sunday through the run of the Biennial
May 15 – August 31 | 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

About Monterey Museum of Art
Now in its 65th year of operation, Monterey Museum of Art (MMA) cultivates curiosity in the visual arts and engages community with the diversity of California art—past, present, and future. Through exhibitions and programs, MMA reflects the creative legacies of the region and serves as a collaborative center where art and the community engage.

Monterey Museum of Art
559 Pacific Street Monterey, CA 93940
Open Thursday – Sunday 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
montereyart.org