The Museum of Contemporary Art of Lima (MAC Lima) is a vibrant space that connects lovers of modern and contemporary art with today’s artistic trends. Founded with the mission of reflecting Peru’s cultural diversity, the museum has become a key site for reflection and dialogue on current artistic practices.
MAC Lima offers ongoing exhibitions and cultural activities. It not only showcases recent art but also invites new generations to connect with the history and global transformations of art. It is a cultural refuge where art is lived, felt, and reflected upon, offering a window into the contemporary social, cultural, and political reality.
A Space Dedicated to Contemporary Art
The museum is a mirror of contemporary society, where art is presented as a tool for reflecting on current issues. MAC Lima focuses on art that reflects the realities of the present. It doesn’t focus solely on the past or future—it is a reference point for contemporary art. Exhibitions include recent works as well as those by artists exploring themes such as climate change, social injustice, and new forms of communication.
Through its exhibitions, MAC Lima addresses topics like globalization, politics, and social identities, offering a thought-provoking and accessible space for dialogue. Visitors don’t just observe art—they experience a reflection of a constantly evolving society.
History of the Museum of Contemporary Art Lima
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Lima (MAC Lima) was born from the need to have an institution that would reflect the evolution of modern and contemporary art in Peru. The term “museum” comes from the Greek “mouseion,” meaning a place dedicated to the muses, the inspirational goddesses of the arts. Since its creation, its mission has been to be a space for learning, reflection, and exhibition of new artistic trends.
MAC Lima was officially founded in 2010 as part of a project by the Bank of Credit of Peru (BCP), aiming to provide a platform for contemporary artists and open a space for current cultural expressions. Its architectural design, created by architects Juan Carlos Doblado and Hans Focke, encourages fluid interaction between art and viewers. From the beginning, the museum has sought to be inclusive and accessible to all audiences.
Its roots go back to the 1950s, when contemporary art began to gain ground in Peru under the administration of the Contemporary Art Institute of the Municipality of Lima. Since then, it has been a space dedicated to showcasing the most innovative works by both Peruvian and international artists.
Featured Exhibitions and Works
| FEATURED EXHIBITION & WORK | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|
| “Worlds” by Lika Mutal | This exhibition focuses on the interaction between forms and emotions, immersing viewers in a three-dimensional world that prompts reflection on social and cultural contexts. |
| “The Other Side” by Juan José Díaz-Infante | A proposal that uses light and shadow as tools to create atmospheres that transport the viewer to a symbolic “other side.” |
| “Connections” by Ana Teresa Barboza | Through a series of textile artworks, the artist creates a bridge between contemporary art and traditional techniques. |
| “Portraits of the Soul” by Ximena Garrido-Lecca | A multidisciplinary approach exploring the relationship between the organic and the artificial, using discarded materials to reflect on consumer society. |
| “Sun Skin” by Teresa Burga | A piece that analyzes identity construction in the context of modernity, using performance and sculpture as mediums. |
| “Voices of Silence” by Liliana Porter | This exhibition presents installations that invite viewers to question non-verbal communication and the power of objects in shaping meaning. |
| “The Power of Water” by Jorge Eduardo Eielson | This exhibition pays tribute to natural elements, especially water, and their influence on human worldview through sculpture and installation. |
Location, Hours, and Fees
The Museum of Contemporary Art in Lima is located at Av. Almte. Miguel Grau 1511, Barranco 15063, one of the most iconic and bohemian areas of the city, known for its nightlife, art-filled streets, and cultural atmosphere.
The MAC Lima is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM, and is closed on Mondays.
| ENTRY FEES | PRICE |
|---|---|
| General Resident | S/ 12.00 |
| Student Resident (with ID) | S/ 8.00 |
| Children Resident (5 to 12 years old) | S/ 8.00 |
| Senior Resident (with ID) | S/ 8.00 |
| Non Resident General | S/ 20.00 |
| Non Resident Student (with ID) | S/ 12.00 |
| Non Resident Children (5 to 12 years old) | S/ 12.00 |
| Non Resident Senior (with ID) | S/ 12.00 |
Additionally, the museum offers special rates for school groups and organizes educational activities and workshops to allow for greater interaction with the exhibits.
