Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I contact the Museum for an appraisal or authentication of my artwork?

A. The Monterey Museum of Art and its staff are prohibited from offering valuations, appraisals, or authentications for works of art (see our Appraisal Policy). These should be carried out only by a qualified appraiser or reputable auction house. For a selected, partial list of auction houses and appraisal services, click here.

Q: What is happening at each of the Museum’s locations?

A: Since January 2015, MMA Pacific Street focuses on showing the permanent collection and the Community Gallery. MMA La Mirada is open only for special Museum events and programs. We welcome educational and research visits by appointment. Both locations offer participatory educational and public programs, and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.

We are assessing both facilities and the Museum’s long-term needs. The MMA Pacific Street building is owned by the City of Monterey, with which we have a long-term lease agreement; the Museum owns MMA La Mirada. Strategic Plans going back decades call out the need to address the facilities and the operational impact of having two locations. The Museum is exploring all factors concerning each facility in light of capital and maintenance needs and long-term sustainability. We will keep our members and supporters apprised as the assessment processes unfold.  Significant strategic, historical, and architectural studies have been undertaken in the past year.

Q: The Museum looks different than it did when I visited last. Why?

A:  The foundation of the Museum’s identity is its strong permanent collection, especially early California painting, photography, and modern and contemporary art. The Monterey Museum of Art’s focus is California art—past, present, and future. We are stewards of the collection, committed to its preservation, display, and interpretation. Galleries rotate regularly and works not on view are being researched and catalogued.  Collection review and assessment are standard professional museum practices, allowing us to better care for and understand the Museum’s holdings. 

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