Handicrafts and folk art, also known as popular art, play an important role in the history and culture of Mexico and are often representative of the country’s various regions and indigenous groups. The Museo de Arte Popular (Museum of Popular Art) is dedicated to the promotion and preservation of Mexican popular art.
The Museum of Popular Art is housed in a splendid Art Deco building in the heart of Mexico City’s Centro Historico (Historic Downtown) close to the Bellas Artes Palace, Alameda Park and the Paseo de la Reforma, Mexico City’s main thoroughfare. The museum is located just a short distance from many of the city’s top attractions and can be easily visited while sightseeing in Mexico City.
The Museum of Popular Art explores the origins and significance of popular art throughout Mexico. The items on display are representative of important Mexican traditions that originated in towns and villages all over the country. These customs have been passed down from generation to generation and in many cases that date back to before the arrival of the Spanish.
The exhibits, arranged by theme, showcase a stunning array of Mexican traditions including pottery, ceramics, glasswork, metalwork, woodcarving, mache paper, basketry, weaving, textiles and traditional dress collections. The museum also frequently hosts special exhibits and cultural events.
Information about where many of these crafts originated, when they were made and how they were used is available in both Spanish and English. You’ll also learn how many of the items continue to play an important role in Mexican celebrations and customs.
As you’re sightseeing in Mexico City, keep in mind that many of the crafts that are mass produced and available for sale in the markets are modeled after the traditional and delicately handcrafted works of art that are on display in this museum.
The Museum of Popular Art is located at Revillagigedo 11 in the Historic Downtown of Mexico City. The museum entrance is located on Independencia between Revillagigedo and Jose Azueta. The museum is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 10AM until 6PM, and stays open until 9PM on Wednesdays. General admission is 40 pesos; free on Sundays.
