Get Enchanted

Visiting from New York City, I’ve found the best way to beat a gloomy day in London is to explore. Despite navigating the complex bus and tube network, I finally made it to the South London Gallery. One of the targets of my must-see list. A space dedicated to showcasing international artists who have never had a solo show in a London institution, the gallery has transformed its walls into a world of mystical wonder, showcasing an artist who made my heart sing.

The exhibition, Encantados, introduces London to Paulo Nimer Pjota, a São Paulo-based artist whose large-scale, bold-coloured paintings completely devour the viewer. Working in oil, tempera and acrylic, Pjota layers influences from mythology, pop culture and art history with a distinct flow that honours his roots as a teenage graffiti artist. This is evident in the way he approaches art more as a producer than as a traditional painter. As Pjota explains in the accompanying catalogue, “My painting is about sampling the world, sampling historical narratives... It’s very similar to what a hip-hop producer does... I cut a piece of history, put it in a loop, and insert something new.”

Like many others who arrived drenched and cold, we marched inside. Pjota’s work immerses the viewer into a larger world that reflects the creative imagination we had as children. Each painting is layered with different technical elements, from diluted painted skies to tiny repetitive patterns throughout each character. These figures are a surreal blend of real animals, ancient masks, and folkloric monsters such as the Brazilian Chupacabra. Rather than representing simple concepts of good or evil, these characters act as protective, dreamlike entities representing a collective cultural memory.

Moving side to side, standing far away and up close, beautifully intricate new details constantly appeared. For the first time, I felt true sadness leaving an exhibition, prompting zero debate about buying the book in the gift shop, just so I could remain tied to his mystical world.

Don't miss Encantados at the South London Gallery in Peckham, on display now through August 23, 2026. Entry is free. Head over to their website to check opening hours and plan your trip.