Instituto Tomie Ohtake

The Pinheiros [1] neighborhood’s most compelling attraction is the Instituto Tomie Ohtake (Av. Brigadeiro Faria Lima 201, tel. 11/2245-1900, www.institutotomieohtake.org.br [2], 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Tues.–Sun.), which occupies the first two floors of a wildly flamboyant office tower whose curving facade is painted in tones of magenta and violet.

The building showcases the signature style of one of Brazil [3]’s most daring architects, Ruy Ohtake (responsible for the design of two of Sampa [4]’s chicest hotels: the Unique and the Renaissance, both located in Jardim Paulista [5]).

Meanwhile, the institute pays homage to Ruy’s mother, Japanese-Brazilian artist Tomie Ohtake. Her paintings and engravings that are on display, ranging from early landscapes to later abstractions, all incorporate Japanese artistic elements, most notably traditional brushstroke techniques. Other galleries also display temporary exhibits of contemporary art.

In the Grand Hall, the IT store sells an enticing array of objects, jewelry, and T-shirts by innovative Brazilian artists and designers. There is also a sleekly attractive restaurant/café, specializing in Pan-Asian-Brazilian creations, that is a hot spot for Sunday brunch.