MALBA (malba.org.ar), standing for Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires, is home to the private art collection of Eduardo F Costantini, a Argentine property developer, arts patron and philanthropist who has gathered more than 400 Latin American works from the 20th century.
For the visitor, it is a fascinating collection which also tells the story of local artists' responses to political and social unrest in Latin America over the last century. Must see works include Argentine artist Antonio Berni’s Manifestación (1934); Frida Kahlo’s Self-Portrait with Monkey and Parrot (1942) - purchased by Constantini for US$3.2 million; Diego Rivera’s Portrait of Ramón Gómez de la Serna (1915); and Brazilian artist Tarsila do Amaral’s Abaporú (1928). World-class temporary exhibitions are shown across several galleries and there's a cinema which shows an eclectic range of art-house films. Check the MALBA website for their film schedule, guided tour times, events and audio guides, and to pre-purchase your entrance ticket. Tickets are half-price on Wednesdays.
A haven on hot days, the modern limestone building with soaring ceilings is an easy place to while away an afternoon. For refueling, Ninina MALBA has a great selection of casual eats - sit inside or on the deck overlooking the adjoining park.
