International Open Private
Architectural Design Competition for the

New Building of the Museum
of Contemporary Art
of Panamá

Patrocinadores

The Museum of Contemporary Art of Panama (MAC Panamá) announces the launch of an international architecture competition for the design of its new building, a milestone in the institution’s history and in Panama’s cultural projection within the Latin American context.

With more than six decades dedicated to promoting modern and contemporary art, MAC begins a new phase aimed at consolidating itself as a regional platform for creation, education, and critical thinking. The future headquarters is conceived as a cultural infrastructure open to the city, fostering encounters between art, architecture, and the public realm.

The competition invites architects and multidisciplinary teams from around the world to submit innovative proposals that reflect the museum’s institutional values: inclusion, transparency, social engagement, and environmental responsibility. The process will be open, anonymous, and structured in two stages, ensuring impartiality and architectural excellence. The selection process will be led by an international jury with recognized experience in architecture, art, and museum design.

Through this initiative, MAC Panamá reaffirms its commitment to sustainable urban development and to strengthening the country’s cultural infrastructure. The competition also positions Panama as a meeting point for international dialogue on art, architecture, and territory.

Key Dates

January 13, 2026

Publication of call for applications

March 29, 2026 – 23:59 GMT-5

Submission of proposals Phase 1

April 20, 2026

Publication of finalists

May 3, 2026 – 23:59 GMT-5

Submission of proposals Phase 2

May 25, 2026

Publication of results

The dates indicated may be changed by the MAC at its discretion.

Jury

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David Basulto
Architect

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José Esparza Chong Cuy
Architect and curator

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Martha Thorne
Urban planner

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Antonio Murzi
President Board of Directors

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Graciela Quelquejeu de Chapman
Honorary Director and Co-founder

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Ramón Zafrani
Advisor

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Annamaria Zampogna
Advisor

Advisory Entity: Isthmus in association with architects: María Isabel Arias and Ginnette Gotti, have been responsible for the formulation, drafting, and design of the competition guidelines.

Legal Review: Lovill.

Photography: Alfredo Martíz.

Operational Coordinator of the Competition: Ginnette Gotti

Sponsors

Patrocinadores