Tatewaki Nio's Neo-Andina Exhibition Explores Bolivian Architecture and Migration in São Paulo

Japanese-Brazilian photographer Tatewaki Nio is presenting his exhibition 'Neo-andina 15–25' at the Centro Maria Antonia at USP in São Paulo, running until March 15, 2026. The show, curated by Diego Matos in collaboration with architect Ivo Giroto, documents the Neo-Andina architectural movement in El Alto, Bolivia, from 2015 to 2025. This style, characterized by vibrant, ornate buildings known as 'cholets,' emerged alongside Bolivia's economic growth and the rise of an Indigenous bourgeoisie. Nio's project began in 2015 after learning about the architecture through a London exhibition and the work of researcher Elisabetta Andreoli. He made multiple trips to Bolivia, meeting architect Freddy Mamani, a leading figure in the movement. The exhibition includes photographs, video works, and an audio installation, expanding beyond traditional photography to explore cultural and spiritual dimensions. Nio also addresses Bolivian migration to São Paulo through video interviews and the series 'Mover-se,' which captures folkloric dance performances. The artist, who was born in Kobe, Japan, in 1971 and now lives in Brazil, describes his identity as transient, influencing his cross-cultural perspective. The exhibition marks the first solo presentation of this decade-long project, featuring new formats and collaborative curation.