Fine art is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of Panama. And visiting art galleries in Panama might not be at the top of your to-do list. However, you’d be missing out if you don’t stop to enjoy some art. Panama has a rich fine art history, dating back to the Pre-Columbian era.
There are three notable eras for Panamanian art. Pre-Columbian Art dates back more than 1400 years to indigenous metalwork and ceramics. Spanish influence in art and architecture is noteworthy from the Colonial Period. The last century, resulting from the construction of the Panama Canal and the international influences brought with it, inspired the Modern Period. Panamanian modern art ironically focuses on Panamanian identity while reflecting on the Canal’s international impact on the people’s national identity.
This tapestry of artistic styles resulted in a robust art scene that thrives today.
Art connoisseurs and collectors should know that Panama City and the entire country have a robust art scene. Many galleries offer eclectic art styles catering to many tastes, while others focus on specific styles or genres. Collectors can find unique artistic expressions to add variety to their collections. Panama City’s gallery scene could rival New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago.
Here are some festivals, museums, and galleries for collectors to check out in Panama.
The Artistic Culture and Art Galleries in Panama
Pinta Panamá Art Week
Panama City will host this event from May 21-25. This four-day event focuses on the local art scene but is one of the biggest events on the international art calendar. The festival includes artist studio visits, exhibitions, and gallery and museum tours. It also highlights Panama’s cultural potential, like its stunning architecture and culinary scene.
Marión Art Gallery
Marión Art Gallery offers cultural spaces dedicated to cutting-edge contemporary art. It also strives to make modern art more accessible to the people viewing it. The gallery displays local and international artists, and it’s the only space with a permanent exhibition dedicated to the art of Carlos Cruz-Diez.
Legacy Fine Art
Legacy is in the Balboa neighborhood, one of Panama City’s commercial hubs. It focuses on Latin American artists, with paintings by artists from Panama, Cuba, Colombia, Chile, and Mexico. Legacy celebrates Latin America’s artistic visionaries.
Diablo Rosso
Opened in 2006, DiabloRosso provides a voice for emerging artists from Panama. Located in Panama City’s historic Old Quarter, cultural and artistic influences surround the space. The community supports and encourages artists of all disciplines to promote artistic diversity and risk-taking.
Weil Art
Weil Art was founded in 1990 and celebrates Panamanian art and art from around Latin America. Mediums as diverse as painting, sculpture, photography, and handicrafts populate the space, a treasure trove of local flavor and culture.
Galeria De Arte Indigena
As the name implies, Galeria De Arte Indigena focuses on the art of indigenous peoples of Panama and Central America. Modern versions of classic Pre-Columbian art, such as mola clothing, jewelry, wood carvings, and masks, bring the past to life. This gallery is a must-visit for collectors looking to add unique pieces to their collections.
Museo de la Mola
Traditional Mola is unique to Panama. It’s a handmade textile used in the traditional clothing of Panama’s indigenous people. Today, it is a luscious art form paying homage to the people of Panama’s past. The Museo de la Mola celebrates that culture with displays of more than 200 Molas. Anyone interested in exploring Panama’s cultural and artistic roots should check out this museum.
Galería Habitante
Founded in Costa del Este in 1978, Galería Habitante has showcased Latin American artists without forgetting international artists. Focusing on plastic arts, this gallery offers eclectic stylings that could interest curious collectors.
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