The Pérez Art Museum in Miami is a contemporary art museum based on the collection of art dealer Jorge M. Pérez, as well as a growing collection spearheaded by the Director, Franklin Sirmans. In this blog post, we will explore what makes the Pérez Art Museum (PAMM) so special, from its history to its collection of artwork.

The Miami Art Museum

While the history of the PAMM dates back to a 1996 gallery, what we think of as the PAMM formally got its start as the Miami Art Museum in 2002. Then, in 2011 Jorge M. Pérez donated his art collection to the museum and funded the construction of a new building. In 2013, when the construction was complete, the newly rebranded museum opened as the Pérez Art Museum Miami in Museum Park.

Who is Jorge M. Pérez?

Jorge M. Pérez is a real estate developer, art collector, and philanthropist. Pérez began collecting art in the 1970s. He wanted to donate his collection to create a space where people could explore the arts and connect with culture.

In December 2011, Perez realized this dream by providing $35 million in cash and artwork to what was then the Miami Art Museum in order to help finance the Herzog & de Meuron building design. He gave an additional $15 million to the museum in 2016 and plans to donate his entire collection upon his death.

What is Museum Park?

Museum Park is a 32-acre green space designed by landscape architect Raymond Jungles and completed in 2013. It is home to numerous cultural institutions such as the PAMM, the Frost Museum of Science, and the Miami Children’s Museum.

It is also home to public gathering spaces for events such as Art Basel in Miami Beach which takes place every December.

The PAMM’s Permanent Collection

The museum’s permanent collection consists of 20th-century artworks alongside contemporary works by national and international artists. Over the past 25 years, it has grown to encompass nearly 3,000 works of art which are displayed in eight galleries in the museum.

Drawing inspiration from Miami’s cultural diversity, the collection places a strong emphasis on art that relates to the US Latinx experience, the African diaspora, Latin America, and the Caribbean. There are works by Cuban and Latin American artists, including Carlos Alfonzo, Alexandre Arrechea, Eladio Otero, Consuelo Castaneda, Zunilda Guell, and many more!

Along with the LACMA, the PAMM is definitely the place to go for Latin American art in the US!

How Much Does it Cost?

Admission to the museum costs $16 for adults or seniors (65+) with valid ID. Students are admitted free of charge, and it is free on the first Saturday of every month for Miami-Dade County residents.

What is the Perez Art Museum Like?

The museum itself is a work of art within a Museum Park, with its modern design inspired by the surrounding environment and culture. The building’s roof features two large concrete circles which act as skylights above each gallery to provide natural lighting.

The museum also has a 2500 square foot garden that highlights plants native to South Florida and includes an outdoor terrace with views over Biscayne Bay. The museum’s café offers panoramic views of downtown Miami as well as Museum Park.

What Can I do at PAMM?

The museum offers a range of activities for visitors, from guided tours and educational classes to music performances and artist talks throughout the year. You can also take part in family-friendly events such as art workshops or concerts that are perfect for children.

Are There Other Art Museums in Miami?

Of course! Miami is a cultural hub in the United States, not just for art, but theater and music as well. But if you are looking for art museums, check out the Frost Museum of Art on the campus of Miami-Dade College, Coral Gables Museum in Coral Gables, and the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami.

But whatever you do, don’t miss the Pérez Art Museum Miami. It is truly a cultural gem in the city of Miami. So if you have not been yet, be sure to plan your trip soon!