ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Erika Palomino Directs São Paulo Cultural Center as Space of Resistance and Diversity

institutional · 2026-04-23

In February 2020, Erika Palomino took on the role of director at the Centro Cultural São Paulo (CCSP), emphasizing innovation, diversity, and resistance. She was appointed by Culture Secretary Alê Youssef from the Bruno Covas (PSDB) administration and oversees a staff of around 200 individuals. While CCSP attendance increased by 30% in 2019 compared to 2018, Palomino is committed to enhancing the quality of programming. Recognizing that her position is tied to municipal governance and the upcoming 2020 elections, she is focused on sustainable initiatives, such as expanding collections and curatorial areas for Fashion, Performance, and Dance. The CCSP, created by Eurico Prado Lopes and Luiz Telles, is currently hosting the 12th Architecture Biennial until December and will present the 34th São Paulo Biennial next year. Palomino highlights the importance of the CCSP as a sanctuary for freedom.

Key facts

  • Erika Palomino became director of Centro Cultural São Paulo (CCSP) in February 2020.
  • She was appointed by Culture Secretary Alê Youssef of the Bruno Covas municipal administration.
  • CCSP attendance increased by about 30% in 2019 compared to 2018.
  • Palomino's tenure is linked to the municipal management, subject to the 2020 elections.
  • Her priorities include expanding collections, new curatorial departments (Fashion, Performance, Dance), and facility renovations.
  • The CCSP is hosting the 12th Architecture Biennial until December 2020 and will host a 34th São Paulo Biennial exhibition in 2021.
  • The CCSP was designed by Eurico Prado Lopes and Luiz Telles, inaugurated in 1982.
  • In October 2020, CCSP will host the censored play by the company A Motosserra Perfumada.

Entities

Artists

  • Erika Palomino
  • Alê Youssef
  • Bruno Covas
  • Eurico Prado Lopes
  • Luiz Telles
  • Karlla Girotto
  • Mauricio Ianês
  • Sônia Sobral
  • Hélio Menezes
  • Adelaide Pontes
  • Jurandy Valença
  • Rodolfo Beltrão

Institutions

  • Centro Cultural São Paulo (CCSP)
  • Prefeitura de São Paulo
  • Secretaria de Cultura
  • PSDB
  • Bienal de Arquitetura de São Paulo
  • Bienal de São Paulo
  • AACCSP
  • FUNARTE
  • A Motosserra Perfumada
  • Folha de S.Paulo

Locations

  • São Paulo
  • Brazil
  • Porto Feliz

Sources