The CAAM, Atlantic Centre of Modern Art, is one of the most important spaces for modern and contemporary art in Gran Canaria. Located in the historic quarter of Vegueta, the CAAM links Europe, Africa and America through a cultural programme that is unique in the Canary Islands. Since its inauguration in 1989, the museum has promoted cultural exchange and has become a point of reference for those seeking a global artistic experience. A dialogue between cultures on both sides of the Atlantic. Want to know more? Then read on!
What makes CAAM special?
Historically, the Canary Islands have been a key point in the Atlantic for commercial and cultural routes, especially in Europe’s expansion towards Africa and the Americas. This strategic location has made Gran Canaria, with its capital Las Palmas, a centre of exchange since colonial times.
The CAAM strengthens this identity by giving visibility to local talent, promoting Canary Island artists on the international stage and also presenting artistic narratives that have been historically marginalised. Its pluralist vision creates an intercultural dialogue in which art is linked to everyday life in Gran Canaria, inviting the community to participate and learn.
Art experiences: what does CAAM offer?
Like any museum of contemporary art, CAAM has a permanent collection, temporary exhibitions and interactive activities and workshops. However, a visit to CAAM is an opportunity to experience the richness of diversity: each exhibition and activity shows how art can be a meeting point between different perspectives and cultural origins, right in the heart of the Canary Islands. You will enter a space of interaction and discovery from which you will emerge with new perspectives!
Cultural and educational programme
In addition to its exhibitions, CAAM offers a cultural programme for everyone. Workshops, guided tours and special activities open up the space to those who want to learn and explore contemporary art in a more personal way. The Centre’s Education and Cultural Action Department (DEACCIÓN) organises activities aimed at sharing experiences and discovering new ways of looking at art with others.
Research and documentation resources at CAAM
Library and Documentation Centre (BCD)
CAAM’s Library and Documentation Centre (BCD) is an important resource for researchers, students and art lovers. With free access and a collection of nearly 80,000 items, it includes books, exhibition catalogues, audiovisual and electronic resources on a wide range of subjects, from film to comics to design. The special collection dedicated to the tri-continental nature of the centre stands out, offering unique material on art in Africa, Europe and America, and reinforcing CAAM’s link with its intercultural identity.
The CAAM Research Laboratory – LAB CAAM
Created in 2009, LAB CAAM is a space for reflection on contemporary art and museology. As a laboratory for the 21st century, it promotes interdisciplinary research on themes such as interculturality and tricontinentalism, supports the CAAM programme and offers advice to researchers. With digital and bibliographic resources, the LAB CAAM promotes current debates on art and culture and organises seminars, workshops and projects that enrich the vision of CAAM as a centre for artistic production.
A museum with history: the transformation of a space
The history of the CAAM is also the history of a group of restored historic buildings in the Vegueta neighbourhood. Inaugurated in 1989, the CAAM has three locations: the buildings at numbers 9 and 11 of Los Balcones street, and the San Antonio Abad exhibition hall, located in the square of the same name, a few metres from the other two.
The refurbishment of the buildings on Los Balcones Street was the work of the architect Francisco Javier Sáenz de Oiza, who respected the original façades: number 11, in neoclassical style and attributed to Manuel de León y Falcón, and number 9, with geometric lines on stone. The interior of the four-storey building combines modern structures with traditional Canarian elements, such as the central patio, which is the perfect place to display the art of the CAAM of Gran Canaria.
Since its inauguration in 1989 with the exhibition ‘Surrealism between the Old and New Worlds’, the CAAM has promoted an innovative approach. Under the direction of its first director, Martín Chirino, the museum consolidated its intercultural mission and became a reference point for linking different artistic and cultural practices.
Cultural activities and programmes at CAAM
In addition to its exhibitions, CAAM organises cultural programmes ranging from music to sound art and critical thinking. With activities such as Ático tertulias, the CAAMSonora programme and the JazzCAAM programme, the museum offers a space where art can be experienced in many different ways. These activities create a dynamic and accessible experience for all types of audiences, inviting them to explore contemporary creation from different angles.
Tips for making the most of your visit to CAAM
If you are planning to visit CAAM, here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of the experience:
- Wear comfortable shoes: The museum is located in the historic quarter of Vegueta, so take the opportunity to stroll around the cobbled streets.
- Check the opening times and programme of events: Check the website for details of exhibitions, events and opening times before you visit.
- Take your time: Take your time in each area, explore the museum at your leisure and, if possible, take a guided tour or workshop.
- Admission is free: Admission to the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions is free, so you can come back and enjoy each new exhibition.
- Take part in activities: workshops and guided tours are usually free; book in advance to secure your place.
- Getting there is easy: CAAM is within walking distance of the main public transport stops.
- Access rules: Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Animals are not allowed, except guide dogs, and large objects must be left in the cloakroom to ensure a safe visit.
The CAAM (Atlantic Centre of Modern Art) is an essential cultural experience if you want to get to know the history and culture of Gran Canaria through contemporary art. Planning your holidays and looking for accommodation in Gran Canaria? The Lopesan Hotel Group offers you a selection of first class hotels where you can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay to complete your cultural visit to the island. We look forward to welcoming you!
