A Cultural Landmark and Educational Hub
The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico (MAC) is a renowned nonprofit organization and a beacon of contemporary art located in the historic Rafael M. Labra Building in Santurce. Founded in 1984, the MAC is a 501(c)(3) institution dedicated to collecting, documenting, preserving, promoting, and studying art from Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, Latin America, and their diasporas. Its unique collection of approximately 1,200 works makes it a vital educational and cultural resource.
Rich History and Architectural Significance
The MAC is housed in the Rafael M. Labra Building, constructed in 1916 and designed by architect Adrian C. Finlayson in Georgian style. Named after Rafael María de Labra, a notable educator and activist advocating for education as a means of social change, the building symbolizes the museum’s commitment to education and social responsibility. It is an artistic treasure restored by renowned Puerto Rican architect Otto Reyes Casanova between 1995 and 2002.
Extensive Programming for Diverse Audiences
The MAC offers a wide range of educational programs designed to engage the public deeply with contemporary art. Among its key initiatives are the Enlace Program: Museum/School, Teachers’ Club, and specialized programs for families, adults, and individuals with autism or sensory challenges. The Young Art for Leaders program empowers youth to use art for community action.
As highlighted on their social media, the MAC emphasizes, “Our mission is to educate, inspire, and connect through the powerful lens of contemporary art.” This sentiment reflects their robust offerings, including workshops, forums, and discussions with artists.
Cultural Equity and Community Collaboration
One standout initiative is El MAC en el Barrio, a cultural equity program emphasizing a meaningful relationship between artists, the museum, and the community. Through this, the MAC actively involves marginalized communities, fostering artistic production and making culture accessible. Their Instagram says, “Art is for everyone, and through our programs, we ensure no one is left behind.”
Educational Resources and Documentation Center
The MAC Educational Resources platform provides valuable tools for educators and the general public, integrating the arts with other academic subjects. Creative workshops facilitate dynamic learning experiences, encouraging research, creativity, and knowledge exchange. The Documentation Center, established in 1989, houses extensive materials on contemporary art, accessible both in person and virtually.
“Our Documentation Center is not just an archive, but a living, evolving resource,” shares the MAC on Instagram, highlighting its critical role in preserving artistic history.
Encouraging Community Involvement
Visitors are encouraged to engage deeply with the MAC through volunteer opportunities, donations, and active participation in its diverse programs. Supporting the MAC means contributing to cultural preservation, education, and community enrichment.
Visit the MAC’s website and social media pages to learn more about its programs, volunteer opportunities, and donation options. Your involvement helps sustain the vibrant intersection of art and community the MAC fosters.
CONTACT Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Puerto Rico 
Telephone: 787-977-4030
Email: digital@museomac.org, mac.educacion@gmail.com
Website: www.mac-pr.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/museomacpr
Instagram: www.instagram.com/museomacpr
Location: #1220 Av. Ponce de León, Esq. RH Todd, Pda. 18, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Hours: www.museomac.org/visitanos
Educational Programs: maceduca-pr.org/sobre-el-mac/servicios-y-programas-educativos/
Visit other museums
Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR)
Museo de Arte y Diseño de Miramar (MADMi)
Museo de las Américas
