Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR)

Nurturing Puerto Rican Culture and Arts

Since its inception in 1996, the Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR), a vital 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has served as a significant cultural institution dedicated to preserving and promoting Puerto Rican art and heritage. MAPR has become a beacon for artistic expression, education, and community engagement in the historic, neoclassical former San Juan Municipal Hospital.

Exhibitions that Speak to Identity

MAPR’s hallmark exhibition, “Puerto Rico Plural,” showcases over 250 artworks by more than 150 Puerto Rican artists from the 18th century to the present. These pieces reflect profound themes of identity, culture, and societal dialogue. The exhibition uniquely begins on the museum’s facade with an impactful mural by Alexis Díaz, asserting the importance of remembering history. As MAPR stated on Instagram, “Our art defines us, unites us, and speaks for us. Through it, we understand our identity and history.”

1997 construction of MAPR — 1997, Conversión del Hospital Municipal de San Juan en Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico.

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Programs

The museum’s 130,000-square-foot space seamlessly blends historic architecture with contemporary design. Its east wing features the impressive stained glass artwork “Sol naciente taíno” by Eric Tabales. At the same time, its Raúl Juliá – Banco Popular Theater, dedicated to the memory of the acclaimed actor, offers a modern venue for artistic and community events. Notably, the theater’s hand-woven curtain, “Mundillo nuestro,” symbolizes cultural unity and craftsmanship, reflecting MAPR’s commitment to preserving traditional Puerto Rican arts.

Education and Interactive Learning

MAPR’s activARTE Gallery, sponsored by the Ángel Ramos Foundation, is an interactive hub that fosters creativity and art appreciation among children and adults alike. The gallery’s “Graphós: Art as Language” exhibit encourages visitors to engage actively with art, fostering multisensory experiences. MAPR emphasizes this mission on Facebook: “We believe in art’s power to transform and inspire—especially among our youth.”

A Botanical Oasis for Reflection

The El Jardín Botánico Escultórico (Botanical Sculpture Garden), extending over 2.5 acres, is integral to MAPR’s mission of marrying art with nature. Home to 365 trees and over 106,000 plants, the garden also features 16 sculptures harmoniously integrated with the landscape, underscoring the museum’s holistic approach to culture and community.

Collaborations and Community Impact

MAPR collaborates with local artists, nonprofits, educational institutions, and community groups. The museum fosters cultural awareness and artistic dialogue through exhibitions, workshops, academic programs, and cultural events. As highlighted on its social media, “We are more than a museum; we are a community that nurtures, educates, and connects through art.”

Promote Cultural Heritage and Artistic Expression in Puerto Rico

Visitors and supporters are encouraged to explore MAPR’s diverse offerings, volunteer their time, and make donations to sustain its vital work. By participating, individuals can directly contribute to preserving Puerto Rican heritage and promoting artistic expression for future generations. “Every visit, every donation supports our mission to enrich lives through art and culture,” MAPR’s Instagram page reminds us.

CONTACT Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (MAPR)

Telephone: 787-977-6277
Website: https://www.mapr.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MuseoMAPR/
Location:299 Avenida de Diego Santurce, Puerto Rico 00909
Memberships: https://tienda.mapr.org/memberships