Museo Nacional de Arte Moderno, Guatemala
The National Museum of Modern Art “Carlos Mérida” of Guatemala, originally named the National Museum of History and Fine Arts, was established through Government Agreement No. 1623 on January 15, 1935. Remarkably, it was inaugurated on November 10, 1934, a notable three months prior to its official legal creation.
In its initial phase, the museum found a home in the former temple of Calvary, situated atop the hill at the terminus of 6th Avenue and 18th Street in Zone 1 of the City of Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción.
However, in 1947, due to the expansion of 6th Avenue, the old temple was demolished. The entire artistic and historical legacy comprising the Heritage was subsequently relocated to the La Aurora National Farm in Zone 13, as well as to the Museums of Antigua Guatemala.
In 1953, during the National Fair, the organizers, led by Mr. Jorge Toriello Garrido, had the fortunate idea to reorganize the Museum.
They selected the building that, at the time, housed a National Police detachment, deeming it the most suitable location in the area. In 1957, under superior orders, the building was vacated to establish the Adolfo V. Hall Civic Military Institute.
The historical objectives originally displayed in the Museum were carefully stored in another adjacent space. Eventually, these exhibits were relocated to the current Building No. 6 in 1968.
This move was successfully orchestrated through collaborative efforts involving the Institute of Anthropology and History, the Society of Friends of the Museum, and the Museum’s own management, ensuring a safer and more permanent home for the valuable historical artifacts.
On October 16, 1975, under the directive of the Ministry of Education and the Institute of Anthropology and History, a significant transformation took place. The historical material previously showcased in this museum was separated to establish the National Museum of History of Guatemala.
Subsequently, the former Museum of History and Fine Arts adopted the name “National Museum of Modern Art of Guatemala.” During this period, it functioned as a unit within the Institute of Anthropology and History under the Vice Ministry of Culture within the Ministry of Education. Notably, the Ministry of Culture and Sports, in its current form, was officially established in 1986.
This building, erected in 1939 by the architect Roberto Moreno, was initially designed for the celebration of dances during the November Fair, dedicated to General Jorge Ubico. Notably, its central coffered ceiling is of the Mudejar type, crafted from octagons of natural mahogany, featuring bronze rose windows in the center.
The focal point of the central area is adorned with a wrought iron lamp measuring 2.50 meters in diameter, boasting 96 lights. Along the corridor, the ceiling showcases a Spanish terrace design with wooden beams intricately adorned with painted decorations.
The structure is supported by 25 cylindrical columns, each embellished with two hexagonal wrought iron lanterns. This architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to both historical significance and artistic craftsmanship.
Mission:
The museum’s mission is to establish a dynamic space dedicated to showcasing the Collection and plastic heritage of the Modern Age in Guatemala. They are committed to implementing structured programs that foster the exhibition, dissemination, and awareness of these cultural treasures.
Through targeted activities, we aim to contribute to the appreciation and care of these works, reaching diverse audiences including society at large, businesses, families, educational institutions, and entities that play a crucial role in bolstering the Guatemalan Plastic Heritage.
Additionally, they aspire to promote new artistic proposals, both nationally and internationally, shaping a vibrant and interconnected artistic community.
Vision
The museum aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the Guatemalan identity by actively contributing to the development of programs and activities.
These initiatives are designed to enhance society’s understanding of National Art and its eminent representatives, while simultaneously creating opportunities for the exploration and appreciation of Guatemala’s rich artistic heritage.
Through educational programs, curated exhibitions, and innovative alternative activities, they strive to cultivate a broader and deeper appreciation for the arts, fostering a cultural environment where the diverse facets of national art are celebrated and cherished.
Permanent exhibition room
The Museum boasts a collection encompassing numerous exemplary pieces of National Contemporary Art, serving as an invaluable resource for scientists, cultural workers, and individuals at large, including students of various levels.
Within its holdings are drawings, engravings, paintings, and sculptures created by distinguished national plastic artists, as well as works by foreign artists of internationally recognized prestige. This diverse and rich collection provides a comprehensive overview of contemporary artistic expressions, making it a significant source for both academic study and public appreciation of the arts.
Soledad Quartucci | CEO/Founder, Latina Republic
Latina Republic is dedicated to promoting regional understanding through compelling narratives, articles, interviews, and reports that emanate from the heart of the Americas. Our foremost goal is to facilitate constructive dialogue by illuminating local viewpoints frequently overshadowed by mainstream media. Our mission is to equip all stakeholders with essential insights for addressing regional issues, thus empowering them in their efforts. We are committed to portraying the victories and hardships of everyday life in Latin America, while also chronicling the progression of social movements and amplifying the voices of those at the forefront of change.
