The IVAM has made a significant move in its exhibition history with the opening of its permanent collection space. This project, encompassing five hundred works, 266 artists, and ten rooms across 1,500 square meters, impresses with its scale and content.
Works by artists such as Josep Renau, Joan Miró, Henri Matisse, and Carmen Calvo headline this ambitious undertaking, allowing visitors to explore the treasures of the Valencian Community's extensive modern and contemporary art collection, considered one of the most prominent in Spain.
The success of the inauguration highlights a reality: the IVAM is outgrowing its space. The collection has grown considerably since its opening in 1989, expanding from approximately 1,600 works to over 12,300 in its own funds, plus an additional 2,500 pieces on deposit. The activity program has also expanded, making the venue a place where contemplation is just the beginning of the experience.
The issue of the IVAM's size is not new. Originally, it shared space with the Centre del Carme. Later, an expansion proposal by Japanese architects SANAA was shelved, and a hurried renovation of the rear courtyard, intended as a sculpture garden, has been an absolute failure.
The idea of expanding the IVAM has persisted with various plans, including discussions with Bombas Gens, a now-closed venue in Alcoy, and a proposed sub-venue in one of the Parc Central's docks, which was discarded by the Generalitat. Currently, the València City Council is transforming the warehouse into the future Espai Valdés.
In 2026, the museum aims to be a benchmark, as emphasized by the regional secretary of Culture, Marta Alonso, during the presentation of the new rooms. However, it cannot progress further without a necessary expansion.
With the creation of the new permanent collection rooms and spaces dedicated to Julio González and Pinazo, the museum strengthens its narrative and fulfills its mission of disseminating its rich collection. Nevertheless, it lacks the physical space to truly become the leading institution that is often promised but not fully supported.
