The CAM Collection is constantly growing and currently consists of around 12,000 artworks. Despite the many national and international loans granted by CAM, a significant part of the collection is more often in storage that on view. While in storage, works of art are kept in the best environmental conditions (temperature, relative humidity, and light); two-dimensional ones hang on fixed and mobile iron railings, so as to optimize the use of space.

Located between the technical areas and the Collection Gallery, the Open Storage features a changing selection of two-dimensional works, presented informally. It provides visitors with the opportunity to see more of the Collection, while also accessing an area that is shared by them with museum professionals who can use it as a workspace, to inspect or research specific works. Museum goers may therefore acquaint themselves with the way a collecting institution functions.

The Open Storage will be curated by CAM team or invited specialists. This selection may include famed Modernist works by Portuguese and foreign artists; it may also present lesser-known works. CAM will occasionally enable visitors to select a painting, photograph or drawing they would like to see again or acquaint themselves with a piece in a more intimate setting.

Regular guided visits will take place in this space, as well as education programmes.