at that time, several brazilian businessmen, and among them de castro maya, decided to establish an institution that reflected brazil's modern artistic and cultural contributions, and a space for the consolidation of modernist esthetic.

in their efforts, they also laid the foundation for rio's modern artistic heritage, and created one of the most prestigious cultural institutions in the world. 

mam, as it is more commonly referred to, showcases brazil's position as a vanguard of the arts -  its founding is coincidental to the rise of post-modernism,  in part spurred by the work of the south american painter jorge luís borges.

the building, made of concrete and glass, was designed by brazilian architect affonso eduardo reidy.