Contemporary Art Museum in San Jose
Contemporary Art Museum in San Jose

If you've been following my blog for a while, you'll know how much I love visiting the museums and galleries of Costa Rica. Although it's a little small, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design in the capital of San Jose is definitely one of my favorites. Come with me to learn more about this fascinating museum and gallery!

Beautiful gardens in Contemporary Art Museum
Beautiful gardens in Contemporary Art Museum
Guanacaste Escape Adventure Tour
7 Days / 6 Nights
Starting at $779 per person

Cutting Edge

Costa Rica has a long tradition in the arts, but few people realize how many contemporary artists there are here. Of course, with such beautiful scenery, it's hard not to find Costa Rica inspiring! The Museum of Contemporary Art and Design was founded in 1994 to promote the work of artists throughout Costa Rica, and features a number of striking exhibitions and installations across a variety of media.

The museum boasts a collection of more than 900 pieces, including paintings, photographs, etchings, sculptures, video art and multimedia installations. In addition, there is also an open-air exhibition space dedicated to interpretive dance and interdisciplinary performing arts. Although a lot of the works on display were created by Costa Rican artists, the museum also promotes the work of creative talent from other Central American countries, making it one of the most important museums of its kind in this part of the world.

Inside Contemporary Art Museum in San Jose
Inside Contemporary Art Museum in San Jose

A hands-on Approach

In addition to being one of the most fascinating galleries in Costa Rica, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design is also a great place for guests to explore their creative side. The museum hosts regular workshops where visitors can sketch, paint, take photographs and use computers to create their own masterpieces. After viewing the bold and dynamic works in the museum's permanent collection, you might be inspired to try your hand making some of your own contemporary art!

Aside from the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions on display, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design also boasts an extensive video library. Here, guests can learn more about the history of Central American art and the range of cultural influences that have shaped the creative output of artists throughout the region.

Art gallery at Contemporary Art Museum, San Jose
Art gallery at Contemporary Art Museum, San Jose

Getting there

Although it's one of San Jose's most interesting attractions, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design is off the beaten path. The museum is located on 13th Street, between 3rd and 7th Avenues in the Carmen district. Fortunately, it's only a short taxi ride from downtown, so don't miss a chance to explore this fascinating museum during your stay in San Jose!