MAC Panamá | Museum of Contemporary Art

I was here about a year ago, so I wasn't sure, if I wanted to go see the museum again. But yesterday I stumbled over the small satellite they have in the Casco Antigua, and that was completely worth the visit, so today I went again to the main exhibition. Admittedly the directrice had a most charming and persuasive way about her as well, and every single member of her staff I met and talked to was super helpful and pleasant. They certainly added something to the overall experience. So how was it? Lovely. Accessible. Inspiring. Sure, the Panama Museum of Contemporary Art isn't the Guggenheim, but it's a place that inspires and fascinates in its own way, as much as one of the more famous museums do. It's not especially big, but I must have been there almost two hours, I think, and if I had more time, I could spend days and weeks in the museum's fascinating library. Which incidentally is free, from what I was told. Definitely worth at least one visit.

So glad I went! As interesting as a visit to a contemporary art museum in New York City, although of course it is a small gallery with just a few rooms. A lot will depend on which special shows they are doing. The three on show when I went were both cutting edge and unapologetically Panamanian/Caribbean, one on Panama’s environment, one riffing off of the indigo dye as part of the Black Atlantic (with nods to both Paul Gilroy and Homi Bhabha), and a third about the goofy, bold vernacular art of Panama City’s “red devil” buses. I went on a weekday and it seemed like I was the museum’s only visitor, which is too bad—they deserve a lot more.

Wow, MAC has been an absolute highlight of my trip to Panama City. Some very thought-provoking exhibits about the environment, culture and los diablos rojos. Edgar and Laura were working the front desk and I had an absolutely lovely conversation with them about the museum and art in general in Panama. They are truly wonderful ambassadors for the museum; completely kind, welcoming and enthusiastic about the art. I can’t recommend MAC enough and thank you again to Edgar and Laura.

I came into the museum and Edgar offered a tour for an additional 5 dollars. Despite not knowing Spanish, he gave a fantastic tour of the exhibitions and I learned a lot (especially about the indigenous population in Panama). Highly recommended!

If you’re expecting any type of colorful contemporary art, you won’t find it here. $10 each for 2 of us. They had some very scientific prints and was about as bland of a museum I’ve ever been to. We love art, we love visiting these places in different countries, we tried our best to slow down and appreciate but we were through this entire place in 12 minutes. Trip advisor says 1-2 hours which is just not true at all. The $20 may as well been a direct donation to the arts which I hope it is but it was a waste of time for sure. The gentleman at the front was super nice, he did mention they switch out the artist twice a year so maybe we just went at a really bad time but you’ll see more art walking Casco Viejo than you will here. The best part of this place was the coffee shop because they at least had some beautiful prints on display that were for sale.

Had a great visit experiencing the MAC. Arrived a bit early and the staff were incredibly helpful. Suggested the cafe and library area which was very fun to browse. The exhibits were truly fascinating. My phone was on low battery wish I could have taken photos. I loved the imagery and messaging, one of the workers, whose name was Edgar, I believe, was english speaking. We talked about Panamanian history and politics. Even discussed the artists in the exhibits. Very helpful and had a great time!

I had the most wonderful experience visiting this museum! The unique and thoughtfully curated exhibitions offer a fascinating concept that truly stands out. One of the highlights of my visit was the guided tour provided by Edgar, a staff member who went above and beyond to ensure I had an unforgettable time. Edgar conducted the tour in English with incredible passion and an impressive depth of knowledge. He answered all of my questions with enthusiasm and genuine interest, making the entire experience both enriching and enjoyable. I can confidently say this was the best museum visit I’ve had in a very long time. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a cultural and educational experience that leaves a lasting impression!

I loved this museum. The exhibits were beautiful and the staff was knowledgeable and extremely kind. Definitely will visit again.