The Martinez Art Association was conceived in late 1967 by a small group of local artists. The 1st MAA show was a fondly remembered lawn party in the garden of one of the founding members. The next event was on Main Street in downtown Martinez, but the wind was horrific! 1969 came and the Association put on the first Art in the Park event.

Once a summer, MAA's roots still show themselves on the third Sunday in August in Susana Street Park to host the annual Art in the Park with Music.

For 40 years, this event continues to be enthusiastically attended by returning artists and vendor alike. They come to enjoy a tree-lined venue of art, food, and drink to the background of live music provided by local singers and bands.