Museum
Instituto Tomie Ohtake
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The Instituto Tomie Ohtake is one of São Paulo's most striking cultural centres, instantly recognisable for its bold, curving architecture and the vivid magenta-and-violet towers that rise above the Pinheiros district. Named in honour of Tomie Ohtake, the celebrated Japanese-Brazilian abstract artist, the institute was designed by her son, architect Ruy Ohtake, and hosts a dynamic, free-to-enter programme of art, design, and architecture exhibitions, from Brazilian modernists to international contemporary names.
It's a favourite with art lovers and architecture fans alike, the building itself is a sculpture, and the rotating shows are consistently high-calibre. There are also a café and shop. Set in the lively Pinheiros/Vila Madalena area, it pairs well with the neighbourhood's galleries, restaurants, and street art. Check what's on, as exhibitions change regularly.
Don't miss
- Ruy Ohtake's bold magenta-and-violet towers
- Free, high-quality rotating exhibitions
- Brazilian modern and international contemporary art
- A celebration of artist Tomie Ohtake's legacy
- Café, shop, and a buzzing neighbourhood setting
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Instituto Tomie Ohtake
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Instituto Tomie Ohtake with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inHistorical and Cultural Tour of the Center DE São Paulo5★ · 20 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$39 per personSee dates →
Best full dayInhotim - one of the largest open air museums in the World4.6★ · 48 travelers~10 hoursFree cancellationFrom$135 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Tour On São Tomé Island5★ · 22 travelers8–24 hoursFree cancellationFrom$140 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Entry is generally free, check what's currently showing.
- The building, by architect Ruy Ohtake, is an attraction in itself.
- It's in lively Pinheiros, combine with Vila Madalena's galleries and street art.
- Exhibitions rotate often, so there's usually something new.
A bit of history
Opened in 2001 and named for the pioneering abstract artist Tomie Ohtake (1913–2015), who emigrated from Japan to Brazil, the institute was designed by her architect son Ruy Ohtake. It quickly became one of São Paulo's leading venues for modern and contemporary art, design, and architecture.
Common questions
What is the Instituto Tomie Ohtake?
A leading São Paulo cultural centre for art, design, and architecture, named for artist Tomie Ohtake and housed in a bold building, with vivid towers, designed by her son Ruy Ohtake.
Is it free?
General admission is typically free, though some special exhibitions may charge.
Who was Tomie Ohtake?
A celebrated Japanese-Brazilian abstract artist (1913–2015), a major figure in Brazilian modern art, whom the institute honours.
What's nearby?
The Pinheiros and Vila Madalena districts, full of galleries, restaurants, and street art.
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