Colección Jumex: Origins and Evolution
Colección Jumex began with the vision of Eugenio López Alonso, who, after visiting London’s Saatchi Gallery in 1995, sought to foster a similar platform in Mexico for contemporary art. The collection was originally housed in an industrial space in Ecatepec, designed by Gerardo García, and quickly gained recognition for showcasing both international and Mexican artists. In 2001, the establishment of Fundación Jumex Arte Contemporáneo signaled a new era, focusing on the promotion, study, and dissemination of contemporary art.
(The Art Newspaper, Fundación Jumex)
The opening of Museo Jumex in Nuevo Polanco in 2013, designed by David Chipperfield, brought the collection to a broader public, establishing a landmark institution at the heart of a growing cultural corridor.
(Museos CDMX)
Architectural and Urban Significance
Museo Jumex’s building is itself a work of art. Sir David Chipperfield’s design is characterized by a raised travertine plinth, 14 robust columns, and a sawtooth roof that provides abundant natural light and references the area’s industrial past. The structure stands out for its openness, accessibility, and integration with the surrounding urban landscape.
- Location Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 303, Colonia Granada, Polanco, Mexico City
- Design Highlights Travertine marble, flexible gallery spaces, public plaza, and panoramic views
(David Chipperfield Architects, Arquitectura Viva, ArchDaily)
The museum’s location in the Plaza Carso complex, next to Museo Soumaya, positions it within a vibrant urban and cultural hub. Its permeable design invites the public in, creating a vital connection between art, community, and city life.
Impact on Mexico’s Contemporary Art Scene
Museo Jumex has played a transformative role in Mexico City’s emergence as a global art destination. Through ambitious exhibitions featuring artists like Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Abraham Cruzvillegas, and Urs Fischer, the museum has fostered international dialogue and dramatically increased public engagement with contemporary art.
Blockbuster shows such as Warhol’s “Dark Star” and the Koons-Duchamp exhibition have drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors. Beyond its own walls, Museo Jumex has organized exhibitions that travel to major institutions worldwide, from MoMA in New York to the Museo Reina Sofía in Madrid, elevating the profile of Mexican contemporary art internationally.
(The Art Newspaper)
Practical Visitor Information
Visiting Hours
- Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Closed Mondays and select holidays
- Note Check the official website for special hours during major exhibitions.
Ticket Prices and Purchase
- General Admission 70–100 MXN (depending on exhibition)
- Discounts Available for students, seniors, teachers, and Mexico City residents
- Free Children under 12 and all visitors on Sundays
- Where to Buy Online via the Fundación Jumex website or at the museum entrance
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms
- Assistance available upon request
- Clear bilingual signage (Spanish/English)
Guided Tours
- Available in Spanish and English by reservation
- Book in advance for groups via [email protected]
- Tours provide in-depth insights into exhibitions and architecture
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
- Public Transit Polanco (Line 7) and San Joaquín (Line 7) Metro stations within walking distance
- Bus & Parking Multiple bus routes; limited on-site parking, public parking nearby
- Bicycle Ecobici stations nearby
- Dining Museum café and a variety of restaurants in Plaza Carso and Polanco
- Nearby Landmarks Museo Soumaya, Tamayo Museum, Chapultepec Park, Lincoln Park
(Museo Soumaya Website)
Special Events and Photographic Spots
- Regular programming includes artist talks, workshops, and film screenings
- Iconic photo spots: travertine façade, sawtooth roof galleries, and the public plaza
- Non-flash photography is generally permitted except where noted
Private Patronage and Institutional Innovation
Museo Jumex exemplifies how private museums can energize the contemporary art scene. The vision and support of Eugenio López Alonso have set new standards in cultural philanthropy, combining local and global perspectives and supporting independent artistic projects, research, and education.
(Academia.edu)
Integration with Mexico City’s Cultural Scene
Situated in the Nuevo Polanco district and adjacent to Museo Soumaya and Plaza Carso, Museo Jumex is an anchor of Mexico City’s cultural fabric. Its presence has contributed to the area’s rise as a destination for both locals and tourists, particularly during major art events like Zona Maco.
(Forbes)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Museo Jumex’s visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Closed Mondays.
Q: How can I buy Museo Jumex tickets?
A: Online via the official website or at the museum entrance.
Q: Is Museo Jumex wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes; the museum is fully accessible.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in Spanish and English by reservation; book via [email protected].
Q: What are some nearby attractions?
A: Museo Soumaya, Tamayo Museum, Chapultepec Park, and the Polanco shopping/dining district.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Non-flash photography is generally permitted unless otherwise indicated.
