Paulo Nimer Pjota and Ranti Bam Open Dual Exhibitions at South London Gallery
The South London Gallery (SLG) presents two concurrent exhibitions from 1 May to 23 August 2026: Paulo Nimer Pjota's 'Encantados' and Ranti Bam's 'Sacred Groves'. Pjota, a Brazilian artist with a graffiti background, fills the main gallery with vibrant paintings and wall murals depicting mythical creatures and fantasy landscapes. His work samples influences from hip hop, reggae, and his Brazilian upbringing, incorporating kaleidoscopic flowers and memories of his grandparents' home. The exhibition transforms the space into an immersive, colourful environment. In the Fire Station Gallery, British Nigerian artist Ranti Bam presents her first institutional show, featuring large-scale ceramic forms shaped by her embraces, leaving impressions of her body. Her work is deeply connected to Yoruba spiritual practices. SLG Director Margot Heller noted that Pjota grew up without access to galleries, underscoring the gallery's ethos of openness and accessibility. The exhibitions are free, contrasting with debates about museum entry fees, though the author reflects that free entry does not guarantee true accessibility due to other barriers.
Key facts
- Paulo Nimer Pjota: Encantados and Ranti Bam: Sacred Groves run from 1 May to 23 August 2026 at South London Gallery.
- Pjota is a Brazilian artist with a background in graffiti.
- His exhibition features mythical creatures, wall murals, and references to European art and popular culture.
- Pjota cites hip hop and reggae as major influences, and his work includes memories of his grandparents' home.
- Ranti Bam is a British Nigerian artist presenting her first institutional show.
- Bam's large-scale ceramic forms are created by hugging damp clay cylinders.
- Her work is inspired by Yoruba sacred spaces and spiritual roots.
- SLG Director Margot Heller commented on Pjota's lack of access to galleries growing up.
Entities
Artists
- Paulo Nimer Pjota
- Ranti Bam
- Zurbarán
Institutions
- South London Gallery
- National Gallery
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- Brazil
- Nigeria