Visit the Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art) to discover a fascinating display of Mexican art from the 20th and 21st centuries. See work by famed national artists, including Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, and expositions that showcase Mexican culture. Established in 1964, today the Museo de Arte Moderno has a collection of about 3,000 drawings, paintings, photographs, prints and sculptures.
The museum’s artworks are displayed across two floors of an architecturally impressive building. Among the permanent collection are 20th-century paintings by David Alfaro Siquerios and Rufino Tamayo. Spot work by husband and wife Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, two of Mexico’s most celebrated artists. Don’t miss the collection of mid-1900s surrealist paintings by Remedios Varo. You’ll also find an extensive display of photographs, including work by Manual Álvarez Bravo.
Investigate the temporary exhibits at the museum which strive to explore various aspects of Mexican and Latin American culture. One example is a photographic portrayal of Mexican life by French photographer Bernard Plossu. Another is an eclectic display of posters that highlighted the artistic, cultural and political ties between Mexico and other countries.
Take time to stroll around the museum’s leafy garden to see a wide range of contemporary sculptures. Signs in Spanish provide details of each work’s title and artist.
Located on the eastern edge of Bosque de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Park), the Museo de Arte Moderno is about a 15-minute drive from Mexico City’s historic center. It’s easily accessible via public transportation such as buses, the metro and a hop-on/hop-off tourist bus. While here, visit Bosque de Chapultepec, which has tree-lined avenues, a boating lake, sculpture trail and zoo. It’s also home to the striking Castillo de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Castle), which houses the Museo Nacional de Historia (National History Museum).
The Museo de Arte Moderno is open from Tuesday to Sunday and has an admission fee. Visit for free on Sundays. Guided tours are available on weekdays by prior appointment. For more information on opening hours, tours and temporary exhibitions, check the museum’s official website.
