Behind Havana Cathedral, the Contemporary Art Center Wifredo Lam occupies the 18th-century Casa del Obispo Peñalver. Named for the Cuban painter, it researches and promotes contemporary visual art from Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia. Temporary exhibitions bring together Cuban and South American artists, while a permanent display of Lam’s lithographs and etchings gives you a closer look at his work. The colonial rooms are part of the visit, and the center also holds specialist conferences and live performances.
An art center in an 18th-century house
The center is housed in Casa del Obispo Peñalver, an 18th-century building behind Havana Cathedral. Its name honours Wifredo Lam, the Cuban painter whose work gave the institution its focus.
The center opened in 1983, a year after Lam’s death. Its purpose is to research and promote contemporary visual arts from developing countries in Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia.
Exhibitions and Lam’s work
Temporary exhibitions feature contemporary Cuban and South American artists. The program changes, so check what is on before your visit. A permanent display includes lithographs and etchings by Lam.
Lam studied in Spain and fought on the Republican side in the Spanish Civil War. His work and influence are part of the center’s connection between Cuban art and wider international currents. The venue also hosts specialist conferences and live performances.
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Where is the Wifredo Lam Art Center?
It is in Casa del Obispo Peñalver, just behind Havana Cathedral.
What can you see at the center?
The center has temporary exhibitions by contemporary Cuban and South American artists, as well as a permanent display of Wifredo Lam’s lithographs and etchings.
When should you arrive?
Arrive before 3 pm, since the center closes early.
Should you arrange tickets in advance?
Advance ticket booking is recommended.
