Museum of Art of São Paulo Assis Chateaubriand

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The museum's main building is one of the largest free-span structures in the world, stretching 74 meters.

2. 2

   Architect Lina Bo Bardi designed the signature crystal easels in 1968 to strip paintings of the 'hierarchy' imposed by traditional museum walls.

3. 3

   The museum's permanent collection was initiated by journalist Assis Chateaubriand, who acquired works through a network of wealthy donors and global connections.

4. 4

   The open plaza beneath the museum, known as the 'Vão Livre,' is a protected heritage site and a frequent location for public protests and cultural gatherings.

5. 5

   The museum holds an extensive collection of Brazilian art, with a specific focus on 19th and 20th-century national identity.

6. 6

   In 2008, the museum was the target of a high-profile art heist involving two paintings by Picasso and Portinari, both of which were recovered shortly after.

7. 7

   The building's floor-to-ceiling glass walls were designed to preserve the connection between the urban environment and the artwork.

8. 8

   MASP's collection of Italian art is considered the finest in Latin America.

Overview

The Museum of Art of São Paulo (MASP) is an iconic modernist landmark suspended 74 meters above the ground by two massive red concrete beams. Designed by architect Lina Bo Bardi, the building is renowned for its open-span design that maintains the public plaza view underneath. The museum holds the most comprehensive collection of Western art in the Southern Hemisphere, spanning from the 4th century BC to contemporary works. Its collection includes significant holdings of European masters, including Renoir, Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, and Modigliani. The exhibition space features a distinctive 'crystal easel' display system, which allows paintings to appear as though they are floating in mid-air. The museum actively rotates its permanent collection to provide diverse perspectives on historical and contemporary art. It also hosts major temporary exhibitions focused on themes of social justice and marginalized voices. The location sits directly on the city's primary cultural artery, Avenida Paulista.

Insider tips

• Check the official website for free entry days, as the museum often designates specific times for complimentary access.

• Use the museum's audio guide app to better navigate the unconventional 'crystal easel' layout.

• Visit the underground gift shop for a curated selection of books on Brazilian design and architecture.