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Paulo Nimer Pjota's 'Encantados' at South London Gallery Blends Folklore and Darker Undercurrents

exhibition · 2026-05-05

The exhibition 'Encantados' (which translates to enchantment) by Brazilian artist Paulo Nimer Pjota commenced at South London Gallery on 1st May and will continue until 23rd Aug 2026. This showcase includes wall drawings and paintings that draw inspiration from childhood tales, folklore, mythology, and surreal landscapes, all infused with a darker tone. Pjota, who sold his inaugural painting at the age of 15 and was immersed in the graffiti and hip-hop culture of São José do Rio Prêto, presents a blend of whimsical yet eerie visuals: lakes emerging from fish teeth, monkeys gathering rainwater in vases, and butterflies originating from a pregnant woman's abdomen. Notable recurring elements are photorealistic vases with peculiar flowers, often placed on plinths, set against enchanting backdrops. The work echoes Hieronymus Bosch's 'Garden of Earthly Delights,' revealing unsettling beauty upon closer examination—featuring sorrowful figures, lurking dragons, and butterflies ensnared in webs. This exhibition is a collaboration with Maureen Paley London and Mendes Wood DM, São Paulo.

Key facts

  • Exhibition titled 'Encantados' at South London Gallery from 1st May to 23rd Aug 2026.
  • Artist Paulo Nimer Pjota sold his first painting at 15 and grew up in São José do Rio Prêto's graffiti and hip-hop scene.
  • Paintings and wall drawings feature magical creatures, vases, and surreal landscapes.
  • Recurring motifs include vases with unusual flowers, often on plinths.
  • Work evokes folklore, mythology, altarpiece paintings, and surrealism.
  • Compared to Hieronymus Bosch's 'Garden of Earthly Delights'.
  • Exhibition presented with Maureen Paley London and Mendes Wood DM, São Paulo.
  • Darker elements include sad characters, dragons, and butterflies in spiderwebs.

Entities

Artists

  • Paulo Nimer Pjota
  • Hieronymus Bosch

Institutions

  • South London Gallery
  • Maureen Paley London
  • Mendes Wood DM

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • São José do Rio Prêto
  • Brazil

Sources