The Caribbean’s Best New Art Museum Is at a Rum Distillery

It’s something that could only happen in Martinique, it seems — the Caribbean has a new cutting-edge contemporary art museum — and it’s at a rum distillery.

This is the new Fondation Clement, a 25,400-square-foot contemporary art museum set at the legendary Habitation Clement, home to Rhum Clement.

The museum, which had its grand opening this week, includes works produced by artists from “all corners of the Caribbean.”

“The Fondation Clément museum adds to the dynamic nature of Habitation Clément, which has long served as much more than a typical distillery attraction,” said Muriel Wiltord, Director Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau. “The history of Martinique’s unique rhum agricole has always remained central to the attraction, but the art integrated gardens, preserved Great House, and other historic structures all make Habitation Clément extra special.”

The museum blends into the distillery’s old structures, making use of original construction materials like stainless steel, lava stone and more.

“Now, with Fondation Clément establishing a stunning permanent new home to showcase the depth and vibrancy of contemporary art in the Caribbean, and especially Martinique, art lovers can celebrate their passions here like no where else in the Caribbean,” Wiltord said.

Now, with Fondation Clément establishing a stunning permanent new home to showcase the depth and vibrancy of contemporary art in the Caribbean, and especially Martinique, art lovers can celebrate their passions here like no where else in the Caribbean.”

The Foundation has opened with an exhibit of Haitian artist Herve Telemaque, with a showcase of 53 paintings, graphic works and scupltures.

The museum is open every day from 9 AM to 6 PM — and it’s free.