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Centro Fotográfico Álvarez Bravo Oaxaca

4.6
·609 reviews·Oaxaca de Juárez, Mexico

A free, beautiful colonial space in Oaxaca showcasing rotating photography exhibits and workshops, named after a Mexican master.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daily, 9:30 AM - 8 PM (closed Tuesdays)

Ample time to explore

CrowdLow
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courtyard

Centro Fotográfico Álvarez Bravo Oaxaca

Best Time

Daily, 9:30 AM - 8 PM (closed Tuesdays)

Ample time to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free, beautiful colonial space in Oaxaca showcasing rotating photography exhibits and workshops, named after a Mexican master.

4.6
(609 reviews)

"Absolutely delightful. This is a wonderful small museum and place of contemplation."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Entry! :money_with_wings:

Admission is free, but donations are welcome to support their workshops and exhibits.

Check Exhibit Schedule :calendar:

Exhibitions rotate frequently. Consult their social media for current displays.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Manuel Álvarez Bravo's Legacy

Manuel Álvarez Bravo's Legacy

Galleries dedicated to Bravo

Explore the evocative photography of Manuel Álvarez Bravo, documenting local life and festivities.

Contemporary Photography Exhibits

Contemporary Photography Exhibits

Rotating exhibition spaces

Discover thought-provoking contemporary art and photography that reflects current themes and local culture.

Beautiful Colonial Architecture

Beautiful Colonial Architecture

The entire building

Wander through a stunning colonial building, appreciating the architecture as much as the art within.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Rotating Exhibits

Enjoy this cultural gem for free! Exhibits change regularly, so each visit offers something new. Check their social media for current displays and workshop schedules before you go.

A Haven for Photography Lovers

Named after the renowned Manuel Álvarez Bravo, this center celebrates photography. While not all exhibits feature Bravo's work, you'll find compelling contemporary and historical photography.

Best Times

When
Daily, 9:30 AM - 8 PM (closed Tuesdays)
Why
Ample time to explore
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique cultural experiences
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¡Haz de tu evento algo inolvidable en Oaxaca! Nosolo capturamos momentos con fotos y videos, ¡sino que también te ayudamos a crear contenido único para que tus recuerdos se vuelvan virales! ¡Agenda con nosotros y déjanos inmortalizar cada instante de tu día especial! Contáctanos al: 9512532770 #Oaxaca #xvaños #quinceaños
@eberhernandezfotografo
47K likes • 314.1K views

Free Entry! :money_with_wings:

Admission is free, but donations are welcome to support their workshops and exhibits. Reddit

Check Exhibit Schedule :calendar:

Exhibitions rotate frequently. Consult their social media for current displays. Instagram

🌟 ¡Inmortaliza los quince años de tu hija con la magia de Eber Hernández Photography en Oaxaca de Juárez! 📸 Descubre la experiencia única de la sesión de Melissa frente a la icónica iglesia de Santo Domingo. 🎥 En este cautivador video, te llevamos detrás de cámaras para mostrar cómo transformamos momentos especiales en recuerdos eternos. Cada imagen cuenta la historia de Melissa de una manera únic...
@eberhernandezfotografo
28.1K likes • 145.3K views
El Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo es un espacio que promueve la fotografía a través de exposiciones y diversos talleres. Fundado en 1996 por el Maestro Francisco Toledo. Cada cierto tiempo, las exposiciones cambian por lo que nunca encontrarás lo mismo. ✨ Un espacio muy bonito para disfrutar de la narrativa de las fotografías y que no te debes perder si vienes a Oaxaca. ✨ 📍M. Bravo 116...
oaxacatimesoficial
0 likes • 912 views

Workshop Opportunities :pencil2:

The center hosts national and international workshops, including a professional black and white lab. Instagram

Appreciate the Architecture :building_gingerbread:

The colonial building itself is a beautiful space to explore, often housing exhibits. Reddit

Visita al Centro Fotográfico Álvarez Bravo en Oaxaca Centro . . . #galeria #gallery #photogallery #arteoaxaca #oaxaca #cfab #alvarezbravo #centrofotograficomanuelalvarezbravo #oaxacacity #oaxacacultural
ale_ztm
11 likes • 947 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Entry! :money_with_wings:

Admission is free, but donations are welcome to support their workshops and exhibits. Reddit

Check Exhibit Schedule :calendar:

Exhibitions rotate frequently. Consult their social media for current displays. Instagram

Workshop Opportunities :pencil2:

The center hosts national and international workshops, including a professional black and white lab. Instagram

Appreciate the Architecture :building_gingerbread:

The colonial building itself is a beautiful space to explore, often housing exhibits. Reddit

Good for Contemplation :thought_balloon:

A peaceful spot to immerse yourself in art and photography, offering a moment of reflection. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(609 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo to be a delightful and contemplative space, especially appreciating its free admission and the opportunity to see diverse photography exhibits. The beautiful colonial architecture enhances the experience, though some note that lighting could be improved for optimal artwork appreciation.

"Absolutely delightful. This is a wonderful small museum and place of contemplation. There are galleries dedicated to the photography of Manuel Alvaro Bravo - his project was to document local residents and festivities.
There is a beautiful courtyard, and other galleries that are used for a contemporary exhibit"

Raymond Hitchcock

"This small site is beautiful and the exhibits are tastefully displayed. Unfortunately, there are currently no photos by Alvarez Bravo. Still, it's worth a quick tour."

Kathe Connair

"Set in a wonderful colonial building the exhibit we saw was wonderful. Exploring the tragedies of the Guatemalan uprising of the 80s. This is a free museum with rotating exhibits. Best to think that every visit to a museum in Oaxaca is a also a visit to wonderful residences or churches you would normally not get to visit."

George Ayoub

What People Like

Free admission
Rotating exhibits
Beautiful architecture

What People Dislike

Inconsistent lighting

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo is located in the heart of Oaxaca City's Centro Histórico at C. de Manuel Bravo 104, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA. It's easily accessible on foot if you're staying in the central area. Taxis are also readily available. Instagram

Street parking can be challenging in the historic center of Oaxaca. It's recommended to use public transport, taxis, or walk if you are staying nearby. Reddit

From Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), you can take a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle to the city center. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo is free for the public. However, donations are encouraged to support their operations and workshops. InstagramReddit

The center is generally open daily from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays. Always check their social media for any unexpected changes. Instagram

No, advance booking is not typically required for general admission as it's free. However, for specific workshops or special events, you might need to register or inquire about availability. Instagram+1

The center offers free admission to all visitors every day it's open. There are no specific discounts as the entry is already complimentary. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Exhibits

The center hosts a variety of photography exhibits, including works by Manuel Álvarez Bravo himself, as well as contemporary artists. Exhibits are constantly rotating, showcasing diverse themes and styles. InstagramReddit+1

Generally, photography for personal use without flash is often permitted, but it's best to check the specific rules for each exhibition. Flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork. TikTok

While the center is named after him and often features his work, not all exhibits are permanent. They focus on rotating exhibitions, so it's worth checking what's on display during your visit. InstagramReddit

Yes, the center is known for offering various photography workshops, including those focused on black and white printing in its professional lab. Instagram

Some visitors have noted that the lighting can sometimes be suboptimal, making it difficult to fully appreciate certain pieces. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ About the Space

Founded in 1996 by the renowned artist Francisco Toledo, the center is dedicated to promoting photography and visual culture. It's housed in a beautiful colonial building. Instagram+2

Yes, the center is located within a beautiful colonial building, adding to the overall experience of visiting. Reddit

The center features a professional black and white laboratory, which is used for workshops and by visiting photographers. Instagram

It's described as a wonderful small museum or gallery space, perfect for a contemplative visit. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo is primarily an art space, it can be a good option for families looking for a quiet, cultural outing. The free admission makes it an accessible activity. Consider visiting when there's an exhibition that might capture a child's imagination, perhaps something visually striking or related to local culture. The beautiful colonial architecture and courtyard can also be engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This center is a must-visit for anyone passionate about photography. You'll have the chance to see works by the legendary Manuel Álvarez Bravo and discover contemporary artists. The availability of workshops and the professional darkroom are significant draws for those looking to deepen their photographic knowledge and practice. Instagram

🏛️ Culture & Art Lovers

For those who appreciate art and culture, the Centro Fotográfico offers a refined experience. The rotating exhibitions ensure there's always something new to explore, and the setting within a historic colonial building adds to the charm. It's a perfect spot to immerse yourself in visual narratives and appreciate the artistic heritage of Oaxaca. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Vision of Francisco Toledo

The Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo owes its existence to the visionary artist Francisco Toledo. He founded this space in 1996 with the aim of promoting photography and visual arts in Oaxaca. Toledo was a multifaceted artist, known not only for his painting and printmaking but also for his deep commitment to culture, community, and the preservation of heritage. Instagram+1

His influence is evident in the center's focus on fostering artistic expression and providing a platform for both established and emerging photographers. Toledo also founded several other significant cultural institutions in Oaxaca, including the Instituto de las Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca (IAGO) and the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín. Instagram

Visiting the Centro Fotográfico is not just about seeing photographs; it's about experiencing a space that embodies Toledo's dedication to enriching Oaxaca's cultural landscape. The center continues to host diverse exhibitions and workshops, reflecting his enduring legacy. Instagram

Exploring the Exhibits: What to Expect

The Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo is celebrated for its dynamic exhibition program. While named after the iconic Mexican photographer Manuel Álvarez Bravo, the center frequently showcases contemporary artists, offering a fresh perspective on photography and visual storytelling. Visitors can expect a range of themes, from social commentary and personal narratives to explorations of Oaxacan culture and history. InstagramReddit+1

Exhibitions are rotated regularly, meaning each visit can offer a unique experience. This dynamic approach ensures that the center remains a vibrant hub for artistic discovery. Some past exhibitions have delved into profound subjects like the Guatemalan uprising or the traditions surrounding Day of the Dead, demonstrating the breadth of topics covered. Reddit

While the quality of display lighting has been noted as an area for potential improvement by some visitors, the overall presentation of the artwork is considered tasteful. The opportunity to see diverse photographic works in a beautiful colonial setting makes each exhibition a worthwhile experience. Reddit

Beyond the Galleries: Workshops and Community

The Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo is more than just an exhibition space; it's a hub for learning and community engagement. The center boasts a professional black and white laboratory, a valuable resource for photographers looking to hone their darkroom skills. Instagram

This facility is utilized for both national and international workshops, attracting photographers eager to learn and refine their craft. These workshops provide hands-on experience and opportunities to connect with fellow artists and instructors. Instagram

Beyond formal workshops, the center also hosts events like book presentations and talks, fostering a lively cultural dialogue. These activities underscore the center's commitment to not only displaying photography but also to actively nurturing the photographic community in Oaxaca. Instagram+1

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