Lisbon For
Art Lovers
Lisbon is fast becoming one of Europe’s most creative cities, home to works of art that range from ancient sculptures to contemporary design-based collections and colourful splashes of street art. Today artists flock here for the affordable housing and studio rents, resulting in a vibrant, innovative art scene.
t Bright, wide galleries in the Calouste Gulbenkian’s Modern Collection
Contemporary Collections
Modern art fans are well catered for in Lisbon. The Calouste Gulbenkian’s Modern Collection brings leading Portuguese contemporary artists together with international names such as David Hockney and Antony Gormley. The impressive Berardo Collection, meanwhile, features the likes of Andy Warhol and Mark Rothko, while the fantastic Casa das Histórias in Cascais is dedicated to the haunting works of Paula Rego.
Museu Calouste Gulbenkian – Founder’s Collection
One of Lisbon’s most extensive museums, this is a must for any art connoisseur. It originated as the impeccable private collection of Calouste Gulbenkian, which he bequeathed to his adopted country on his death in 1955. Explore galleries filled with pieces from Ancient Egypt through to the 20th century, including Chinese porcelain and priceless paintings from big hitters such as Rembrandt and Monet.
Street Art
Azulejos aside, Lisboetas have a reputation for another way of brightening up their streets: graffiti art. Skilled displays can be seen across the city, from the council-approved, open-air “gallery” in Calçada da Glória to the heavily painted walls of LX Factory. Large-scale works by artist Alexandre Farto, better known as Vhils, can often be found on the sides of industrial buildings.
Colonial Art
Portugal’s past as a ruling nation has resulted in a collection of bounty from across the globe. The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga acts as the country’s national gallery, showcasing a vast array of works from both mainland Portugal and its former colonies and trading partners. Don’t miss Nuno Gonçalves’ St Vincent polyptych.
Did You Know?
The Museu Calouste Gulbenkian houses the world’s largest collection of René Lalique jewellery.