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El Museo del Barrio

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 120 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

El Museo del Barrio celebrates and showcases the rich cultural heritage of Puerto Rican, Caribbean, and Latinx communities. It was founded in 1969 by a group of educators and activists who recognized the need for a space that could provide a platform for the artistic expression and cultural identity of these communities. A tourist would want to visit El Museo del Barrio because it offers a unique and enriching experience that is not found in many other museums in the city. The museum features a wide variety of exhibits, including contemporary and traditional art, as well as artifacts and historical objects that highlight the contributions and achievements of Latinx artists and communities. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibits, cultural events, and educational programs that allow visitors to explore and engage with different aspects of Latinx culture. By visiting El Museo del Barrio, tourists can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultural heritage of Latinx communities, as well as the history and traditions that have shaped these communities over time.

1230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029 Get Directions





El Museo del Barrio Videos

As part of the exhibition Something Beautiful: Reframing La Coleccion, on view at El Museo from May 19, 2023 to March 10, 2024, artist Maria Gaspar presents a special artist commission inspired by the Museum's Collection. The demolition of a detention facility is the central component of Maria Gaspar’s presentation in Room 110, on view through August 2023. The extended passage of time in this large-scale projection reflects on how the city is perceived from inside and outside the prison, while the ultimate destruction of the building suggests the need for realized abolition. The accompanying sculptural and photographic installations were created from debris salvaged from the site. Their open-ended configurations transform these charged materials into both mementos and poetic construction elements to build a more just future. Having worked since 2012 with the community of the Cook County Department of Corrections, the largest single-site jail in the United States, Gaspar’s work responds to the violent conditions of the carceral system through public actions, sound broadcasts, sculptures, paintings, and videos. For full descriptions and credits of all videos, email press@elmuseo.org.

In celebration of the book launch of the monograph "Juan Francisco Elso: Essays on América [Juan Franciso Elso: Ensayos sobre América]," co-published by El Museo del Barrio and [NAME] Publications, enjoy this special program featuring guest curator and publication editor Olga Viso, Gean Moreno, co-director of [NAME] Publications, artist Javier Téllez, and Dr. Erica Moiah James, Art Historian, Curator and Assistant Professor at the University of Miami. Panelists will discuss Elso’s life and work, including his interest in Afro-diasporic cosmologies and religious practices, and the Indigenous arts of the Américas. Juan Francisco Elso: Por América is made possible thanks to major support from the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. Additional support provided by Tony Bechara; Ella Fontanals-Cisneros; Celso Gonzalez-Falla; Elizabeth Redleaf; Craig Robins; Steven and Judy Shank, and John Thomson. Commissions are made possible by VIA Art Fund and the Elizabeth Firestone Graham Foundation. Publication support by Furthermore: a program of the J. M. Kaplan Fund. Supported in part with public funds from the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the NYC Council.

Poncili Creación is an art collective known for their fantastical and improvisational approach to puppetry and performance. Composed of identical twin brothers Pablo and Efrain Del Hierro, the duo describes its practice as a form of “speculative alchemy.” The video documents a walking spectacle and durational performance in San Juan, Poncili Creación’s hometown and where they remained in quarantine during the global pandemic. Wearing a structure that takes the form of a mass protest of placard-carrying puppets, Poncili Creación moves along the city’s Avenida Ponce de León, passing through empty streets and gentrified neighborhoods, and stopping at abandoned schools and the capitol building. Attracting the participation of the public along the way, Somxs Podemx explores the power of the individual and the creative possibilities of protest.

As part of a special symposium held in October 2022 presented by El Museo del Barrio dedicated to new scholarship that rethinks the critical histories that have shaped the Museum’s Permanent Collection, hear this panel discussion entitled ‘Nuyorican Histories and Puerto Rican Vanguards.’ The panel covers East Harlem’s art networks such as En Foco and Taller Boricua, the importance of print culture and photography in Nuyorican activism, and Puerto Rican vanguards and their afterlives. Participants include: – Abigail Lapin Dardashti, Assistant Professor of Art History and Visual Studies, University of California, Irvine – Serda Yalkin, Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Art, Art History, and Visual Studies, Duke University – Melissa M. Ramos Borges, Professor, Art History and Theory, University of Puerto Rico (Mayagüez and Río Piedras) Moderator: Lee Sessions, Permanent Collections Associate Curator, El Museo del Barrio This conversation, made possible by the Terra Foundation for American Art, marks the launch of El Museo’s most ambitious Permanent Collection study and initiative in over a decade.

Follow El Museo's Artist and Educator, Carlos Jesus Martinez Dominguez, as he guides us through New York City's El Barrio, detailing special murals and culturally important centers like bodegas and cuchifrito spots in the neighborhood.

Join artist Beto Sepulveda for a narrated guide of the iconic painting, ‘Estoy Bien‘ by Candida Alvarez on view now at El Museo’s current exhibition, ESTAMOS BIEN – LA TRIENAL 20/21. Learn how Alvarez uses color, shapes and lines to express her feelings and ideas. Follow along as you make your own original digital drawing using the Google Draw app on your computer or draw it by hand! Recommended for ages 8 years old and up.

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El Museo del Barrio Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to El Museo del Barrio

The closest subway stops to El Museo del Barrio at 1230 5th Ave are:

1. 103rd Street Station: This station is served by the 6 train. It is located at Lexington Avenue and 103rd Street, just a short walk from the museum. [Click here for subway updates](http://web.mta.info/nyct/service/)

2. 110th Street Station: This station is served by the 4, 5, and 6 trains. It is located at Lexington Avenue and 110th Street, a slightly longer walk from the museum but still convenient. [Click here for subway updates](http://web.mta.info/nyct/service/)

While you're in the area, I recommend checking out some other nearby attractions and activities:

1. Central Park: Just a few blocks west of El Museo del Barrio, Central Park offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a bike, or have a picnic in this iconic park. [Learn more about Central Park](https://www.centralparknyc.org/)

2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Located on the eastern edge of Central Park, The Met is one of the world's largest and most renowned art museums. Explore its vast collection spanning thousands of years and various cultures. [Visit The Met's official website](https://www.metmuseum.org/)

3. Museum Mile: El Museo del Barrio is part of Museum Mile, a stretch of Fifth Avenue that is home to several world-class museums. Take a walk along this cultural corridor and visit other institutions like the Guggenheim Museum and the Museum of the City of New York.

Enjoy your visit to El Museo del Barrio and the surrounding area!


What's the best way to get to El Museo del Barrio by bus?

The closest NYC bus stops to El Museo del Barrio at 1230 5th Ave are:

1. Madison Ave/E 104 St: This bus stop is served by the M1, M2, M3, M4, and M106 buses. You can check for updates on bus schedules and routes on the MTA website: MTA Bus Updates.

2. 5th Ave/E 104 St: This bus stop is served by the M1, M2, M3, M4, and M106 buses. You can check for updates on bus schedules and routes on the MTA website: MTA Bus Updates.

Please note that bus schedules and routes may be subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your visit. Enjoy your time at El Museo del Barrio!


How much time should I plan to spend at El Museo del Barrio?

The ideal length of time to plan to spend at El Museo del Barrio in New York City depends on your level of interest in Latin American and Caribbean art and culture. If you're a casual visitor, you can expect to spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum's exhibits and galleries. However, if you're a passionate art enthusiast or history buff, you could easily spend half a day immersing yourself in the diverse collection and engaging with the museum's educational programs.

El Museo del Barrio offers a range of exhibitions, from contemporary art to historical artifacts, so it's worth checking their website or calling ahead to see what's on display during your visit. Additionally, the museum often hosts special events, performances, and workshops, which can further enhance your experience.

Remember, while El Museo del Barrio is a gem in New York City's cultural landscape, there are countless other attractions to explore in the city. So, plan your time accordingly and make sure to leave room for other exciting activities during your visit!


Can I bring food and drinks into El Museo del Barrio?

El Museo del Barrio is a renowned cultural institution located in New York City's East Harlem neighborhood. While the museum itself does not have a specific food and drink policy, it is important to note that consuming food and beverages inside the galleries is generally not allowed. This policy helps to preserve the artworks and maintain a clean and respectful environment for all visitors.

However, there are several nearby restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal or grab a drink before or after your visit to the museum. East Harlem is known for its vibrant culinary scene, offering a variety of Latin American and Caribbean cuisines. You can explore local eateries such as La Fonda Boricua, El Paso Taqueria, or Patsy's Pizzeria for delicious dining options.

Remember to check the museum's website or contact them directly for any specific guidelines or updates regarding their food and drink policy. Enjoy your visit to El Museo del Barrio and the flavorful delights of East Harlem!


Does El Museo del Barrio offer luggage storage?

El Museo del Barrio does not have a luggage storage facility on-site. However, there are several options available nearby for storing your luggage while you visit the museum. One option is to use a luggage storage service such as Vertoe or LuggageHero, which have multiple locations throughout the city, including near El Museo del Barrio. These services allow you to securely store your bags for a few hours or even a whole day, giving you the freedom to explore the museum and the surrounding area without the burden of carrying your luggage. Another option is to check if your hotel offers luggage storage for guests, even after check-out. Many hotels in New York City provide this service, so it's worth checking with your accommodation.


Is El Museo del Barrio a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, El Museo del Barrio is definitely worth visiting for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. As the leading Latino and Latin American cultural institution in New York City, El Museo del Barrio offers a rich and diverse experience for all visitors.

The museum showcases a wide range of art and cultural exhibitions that explore the vibrant and complex history, heritage, and contemporary issues of Latin American and Caribbean cultures. From traditional to contemporary art, you'll find a variety of mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia installations.

El Museo del Barrio also offers bilingual exhibitions and programs, making it accessible to non-English language speakers. Many of the exhibition descriptions and labels are available in both English and Spanish, allowing visitors to fully engage with the artwork and understand its context.

Additionally, the museum hosts events, performances, and educational programs that celebrate Latin American and Caribbean cultures. These events often feature music, dance, and other forms of artistic expression, providing an immersive and interactive experience for visitors.

Whether you're a Spanish speaker looking to connect with your cultural roots or a visitor interested in exploring the diverse art and heritage of Latin America, El Museo del Barrio is a must-visit destination in New York City.


What ages are appropriate for El Museo del Barrio?

El Museo del Barrio in New York City is a vibrant cultural institution that celebrates the art and culture of Latin America and the Caribbean. While there is no strict age limit, the museum's exhibitions and programs are generally geared towards adults and older children who can appreciate and engage with the artwork and cultural context. That being said, younger children are still welcome to visit with their families and may enjoy certain aspects of the museum, such as the colorful murals and interactive installations. It's always a good idea to check the museum's website or contact them directly for any specific age recommendations or family-friendly events they may have planned during your visit.


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