When it comes to modern art collections, that which is housed within the Berardo Gallery & Museum is considered to be one of the best in the world. It incorporates pieces which encompass the very best of art produced by such influential artists as Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali, Jackson Pollock, Picasso, Jeff Koons and a whole host of lesser known artists. This really is the most complete collection of contemporary art to be found anywhere, a must see attraction for any art lover visiting Portugal.
The collection was the property of the Portuguese business tycoon Joe Berardo. He wished to find a permanent home for his collection, one which the public could visit to view these fine examples of contemporary art. Whilst many major cities vied for the right to display these works, including Paris and Miami, the Portuguese Government felt that it was important to keep the collection within its home nation. Space was summarily provided within the Belem Cultural Centre.
The Berardo Gallery & Museum opened its doors in 2007, and at that time it only exhibited around 900 works, from the total 4,000 in the Berardo collection. Additional works from the collection were housed in Sintra's Modern Art Museum.
The gallery is split across two separate floors, and at any one time there are always approximately 250 pieces of art on display. Exhibits represent many different art media, and this includes photography, paintings and sculpture.
The actual works on display are rotated, and this is done by applying a theme for the current part of the Berardo collection which is being exhibited. The entire collection is valued in excess of $300,000,000 and cannot be shown in its entirety at one time, it is simply too large. However, regardless of the currently deployed theme, and which facet of the collection is currently being displayed, visitors will always be able to view some of the most influential modern art in the world. It is well worth checking the schedule of exhibits before you plan a trip to Lisbon, so that you can catch the works you really want to see at the time they are being exhibited.
Highlights of the Berardo Gallery & Museum
Top of the list for many visitors to the Berardo Gallery & Museum are Andy Warhol's Portrait of Judy Garland and Ten Foot Flowers. Picasso's Femme dans un fauteuil is also very popular, as is Oedipus and the Sphinx After Ingres. By Fracis Bacon.
The Berardo Gallery & Museum for Families
The gallery is a good option for families with young children. Modern art is more colourful and vibrant than older styles, there are plenty of interesting if not fascinating exhibits to enthral the younger mind. A great introduction for young people to art appreciation.
Berardo Gallery & Museum Opening Times
The museum is open every day of the week from 10am until 7pm, except for Sundays and Fridays when it stays open late until 10pm.
Getting to the Berardo Gallery & Museum
The Berardo Gallery & Museum is located at:
Praça do Império
Belem
Tram number 15 stops right outside. Also busses numbered 28, 714, 727, 729 and 751 stop very close to the gallery. The nearest train station is Belem Station.
