Usina del Arte is a cultural center and concert venue in La Boca, Buenos Aires, set inside a restored former power station. Its program ranges from classical music, jazz and tango to exhibitions, workshops and activities for children. The old brick building gives performances a distinctive setting, and its concert hall is known for strong acoustics. Some events are free, while others require advance booking or tickets, so check the program before you go. Look out for Leandro Erlich’s mirrored building installation when it is on display.
A former power station in La Boca
Usina del Arte occupies a former electricity plant in La Boca. The building was constructed in 1916 in an eclectic style by Italian architect Juan Chiogna, then restored in 2008 for cultural use. Its brick exterior and large industrial structure give the venue a different character from a purpose-built concert hall.
The center now brings together performance spaces and rooms for visual art. Its program includes concerts, theatrical performances, workshops, talks and exhibitions. Events change, so the official website is the place to check what is scheduled for your visit.
Music, exhibitions and activities
The concert program has included classical music, jazz, tango and Latin American folk. The main symphony hall has capacity for 1,200 people, and the building also has rooms for dance and other cultural events. The hall’s acoustics are a reason to consider a performance as the focus of your visit.
Visual art and photography exhibitions are also part of the program. One work associated with the center is Leandro Erlich’s Edificio, made in 2004 for Paris’s Nuit Blanche. It uses a façade resembling a traditional Buenos Aires building and a large mirror to create an optical illusion. Check whether it is on view during your visit, since the program changes.
A family-friendly cultural stop
Usina del Arte also schedules activities for children, including workshops, readings, games and recreational activities. Some areas and programming are designed for younger children, including babies, while other activities cater to children up to age 12. Family events can require tickets or advance booking, so confirm the details before setting out.
Many activities are free, but this does not apply to every event. For performances, seating can be limited; registering early or arriving around 20 minutes before the start can help. The venue’s listed public opening days are Saturday and Sunday, so check its website for current access and event information before travelling to La Boca.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Usina del Arte?
It is at Agustín R. Caffarena 1 in the La Boca neighborhood of Buenos Aires.
Are events at Usina del Arte free?
Many events are free, but some require tickets or advance booking. Check the current program for the event you plan to attend.
What can you see or do at Usina del Arte?
The program includes concerts, exhibitions, performances, workshops and activities for children. Leandro Erlich’s mirrored building installation has also been shown there; check whether it is on view.
When is Usina del Arte open?
Its listed public opening days are Saturday and Sunday. Check the official website for current access and event details.
