On October 14th, the new Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico (MAC) opened its doors to the public in the historic Rafael M. Labra building, located in the Santurce neighborhood of San Juan.  Over 700 works from Puerto Rico, the Caribbean and Latin America form the island`s largest permanent collection of contemporary art (post-1940s).

“We are thrilled that the museum is finally established in a permanent location, which will enable us to grow our collection and achieve our mission of bringing together, preserving, documenting and promoting visual arts,” said Dr. Mar’a Emilia Somoza, executive director of the MAC.
In its new home, the MAC is able to exhibit its full permanent collection for the first time, and additional space is dedicated to experimental and temporary exhibitions.  The opening exhibition showcases works by artists such as Mari Mater O`Neill, Marta Pérez, Julio Rosado Del Valle, Pablo Rubio, Rigoberto Quintana, Noem’ Ruiz and Augusto Mar’n.
“This new facility is yet another step in raising the bar for cultural attractions in Puerto Rico. It`s further proof that our community supports the arts and takes pride in sharing our heritage and culture with visitors to the island,” said José M. Suárez, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC).
The facility, renovated and restored by renowned architect Otto Reyes, includes a state-of-the-art conservation laboratory, positioning the museum among the leading arts facilities in the Caribbean.  The MAC is located at Parada 18 on Ponce De León Avenue in Santurce.  Hours are Tuesday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  Admission is a $3.00 contribution for adults, students with proper ID pay $1.00 and members, children, people with disabilities and seniors over 65 are free of charge.
Related stories on Caribbean Weekly:
(02/10/03) Puerto Rico Tourism Company Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Paradores Program

(24/10/03) Puerto Rico shows positive tourism figures
——-