Have you heard of the Sculpture Garden? Located in Jardim da Luz Park, this large open-air art corridor features works by great Brazilian artists such as Victor Brecheret, Franz Weissmann, Amílcar de Castro, and Maria Martins—all free of charge.
Since 2025, the space has officially been part of the Pinacoteca de São Paulo’s collection. From then on, the Sculpture Garden has featured works by Black and Indigenous contemporary artists, transforming the walkway into a journey through various eras of Brazilian art.
Jardim da Luz Park was once a stronghold of São Paulo’s elite
Opened in 1799, Jardim da Luz is the oldest park in São Paulo. Initially, it served as a nursery to supply plants to the city’s public gardens. In 1825, however, the space became public and began to welcome visitors from São Paulo’s elite —including the then-emperor Dom Pedro II.
The first statue arrived much later, in 1910. It was a bust honoring Giuseppe Garibaldi, which for a long time was the only sculpture in São Paulo. Gradually, new works by Brazilian and international artists arrived to add an artistic touch to the setting, marking the first steps toward the current Jardim das Esculturas.
The Sculpture Garden accompanies the park’s revitalization
By the end of the 20th century, with the deterioration of the Historic Center, Jardim da Luz Park had become synonymous with insecurity and decay. However, revitalization projects have gradually been changing this image, bringing cultural attractions to the area.
The Sculpture Garden emerged precisely in this context. By making the works part of the Pinacoteca’s permanent collection, the museum and the park (which are already next door to each other) have grown even closer, increasing the flow of visitors between the two locations.
So, on your next visit to the Pinacoteca Luz, be sure to also explore the wonders of the Sculpture Garden! It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a cultural, historical, and artistic outdoor experience , surrounded by nature, right in the heart of São Paulo.
