Museu da Imagen e do Som

Where the MASP shows dead masters from other countries, the Museum of Image and Sound showcases the best Brazilian contemporary image makers. Photographs in the changing exhibits are always compelling, beautifully displayed, and deeply engaged with contemporary themes such as sex, media manipulation, or marginalization. At all times they make you think. Expect to spend an hour. Call ahead to verify hours. Due to funding shortfalls, the museum often closes between exhibits, sometimes for extended periods.

Located in an intriguing concrete building located right next door, the Museu Brasiliero da Escultura (tel. 011/3081-8611) claims to play host to traveling exhibits of Brazilian artists and sculptors, but neither I nor anyone I know in São Paulo has ever seen it open. Still, one can always try.