MACBA: the place to be for today's artists in Barcelona

Known by the acronym MACBAthe Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona, has been a revelation since it opened its doors in 1995.

The stunning white concrete and glass building, designed by architect Richard Meier, immediately captured the hearts of the residents.

In today's article, I'd like to introduce you to this place.

MACBA in a nutshell

MACBA is a contemporary art museum in Barcelona that hosts exhibitions of mid-20ᵉ century pieces as well as contemporary shows by experimental and interdisciplinary artists from around the world. It is located next to another of the city's major cultural venues, CCCB. The square outside the museum, Plaça dels Angels, is frequented by skateboarders and counter-culture enthusiasts.

Inaugurated in 1995, it is considered one of Spain's most important contemporary art museums. It houses a permanent collection of works by contemporary Catalan and Spanish artists, as well as a selection of international works from the second half of the XXᵉ century to the present day. The museum also organizes internationally renowned temporary exhibitions, highlighting the most influential artists and current trends in contemporary art.

The permanent exhibition

The MACBA's permanent collection is entitled "A Short Century". It is housed in 11 rooms and the tower on the 1ᵉʳ floor. It offers a chronological journey from 1929, when Barcelona hosted the Foire internationaleto the present day, covering nine decades in all. This presentation allows visitors to see how the social and political issues of each era have been incorporated into art.

The works of Zush, a Spanish artist, are clearly influenced by his psychedelic experiences. You'll also find works by the Guerrilla Girls, a feminist group, denouncing inequalities in the art world.

Jean-Michel Basquiat's works address issues of black identity and marginalization in the 1980s. By exploring this permanent collection, visitors can understand how art is used as a means of expression and resistance to the social problems of each era.

Some temporary exhibitions

The MACBA devotes two entire floors to temporary exhibitions, which are designed to fulfill its mission of "bringing contemporary art to life, with particular emphasis on Catalan production" and "encouraging pleasure and interest in art and contemporary culture". Temporary exhibitions are designed to be both educational and entertaining. They offer visitors an opportunity to discover new artists and trends in contemporary art.

MACBA's temporary exhibitions can focus on individual artists, presenting their work in detail and depth.

I recommend that you visit the museum's official website to find out about current exhibitions. Temporary exhibitions complement the permanent collections, showcase emerging and established artists, and provide an opportunity to discover new works. current trends in contemporary art, as well as discovering local artists.

MACBA: what are the opening hours?

MACBA remains open virtually all year round, closing only on December 25 and January 1ᵉʳ. The establishment closes every Tuesday (except public holidays). The rest of the time, the museum opens:

Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sundays and public holidays 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

How do I get there?

If you are staying in the Barcelona old town (Raval, Gothic district and El Born), you can walk to the MACBA quite easily.

Otherwise the metro Plaça Catalunya (red and green lines), and Sant Antoni (purple line) are all very close.

Barcelona's Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-see when visiting Barcelona. Here you can discover the talents of contemporary artists and enjoy their work. Just a moment perfect for art lovers!