Museo Arte Contemporanea Sicilia (Museum of Contemporary Art Sicily), Catania

The Museum of Contemporary Art Sicily (MACS) is a unique cultural gem situated in the historic Badia Piccola of the Monastery of San Benedetto in Catania. Housed in an 18th-century structure attributed to Giovanni Battista Vaccarini, the museum bridges Sicily’s rich Baroque heritage with the modernity of contemporary figurative art.

Inaugurated in June 2013 after extensive restoration, MACS is one of only two European museums dedicated exclusively to figurative contemporary art, the other being the MEAM in Barcelona. Over the years, it has become a dynamic cultural hub, hosting an impressive array of exhibitions and events. In 2016, the museum expanded to include the upper floor of its Catania headquarters, further enriching the visitor experience.

The museum’s collection, spanning two floors, showcases over 70 works, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed-media creations. Artists featured at MACS represent a diverse array of origins, from Sicily and mainland Italy to international contributors from Cuba, Argentina, Singapore, and beyond. The museum is committed to promoting both established and emerging talents, making it a platform for innovation in the arts.

MACS not only celebrates the visual dialogue between its historic setting and modern artworks but also aims to enhance Sicily’s cultural heritage. By fostering partnerships with prestigious institutions and curating cutting-edge exhibitions, the museum plays a pivotal role in promoting Italian and international contemporary art. For art enthusiasts, the museum's online collection offers a glimpse of its remarkable repertoire, continuously updated to reflect the evolving world of figurative art.

Whether you’re drawn by its exquisite Baroque surroundings or the compelling works of art on display, the Museum of Contemporary Art Sicily offers a captivating journey through time and creativity.