Brazilian photographer awarded by the UN exhibits ‘Candomblé’ in Paraguay

Photographer André Fernandes exhibits ‘Candomblé’ in Asunción, featuring 31 works on Afro-Brazilian culture recognized by the UN.

Internationally recognized by the United Nations (UN), Brazilian photographer André Fernandes presents his exhibition ‘Candomblé’ in Asunción, Paraguay. Hosted by the Instituto Guimarães Rosa (IGR), the show brings together award-winning and unpublished works exploring Afro-Brazilian identity and spirituality, inviting the audience to dive into narratives of the diaspora.

Located on Calle Eligio Ayala and Avenida Perú, the exhibition is free to visit by appointment through the IGR Asunción’s Instagram. During guided tours, visitors experience the acclaimed ‘Orixás’ (2014) and the new ‘Ounjẹ Òrìṣà – Comida de Orixá’ (2025), comprising 31 photographs.

With more than 1,300 visitors within two weeks of opening, the exhibition has become a reference for cultural attendance in Paraguay. “André has had the great merit of giving visibility to the practice of Candomblé, not only in Brazil but also here, where many practitioners of this Afro-descendant religion live,” said Carolina Paranhos, head of culture at IGR Asunción.

Through the lens: ‘Orixás’ and ‘Ounjẹ Òrìṣà’

Inspired by the spirituality of Ilê Axé Alaketu in Salvador, the ‘Orixás’ series arrives in Paraguay after earning André Fernandes the UN’s International Art Contest for Minority Artists in Geneva. Under the guidance of Babalorixá Indarê Sá, the images depict Candomblé’s rituals, attire, and symbols as a tribute to African ancestry.

The artist’s latest project, ‘Ounjẹ Òrìṣà – Comida de Orixá’ (2025), features 16 new photos capturing sacred dishes prepared by Tata ria Nkisi Douglas Santana. This series seeks to connect the sacred to the everyday, highlighting the significance of food in Candomblé rituals.

“There is no Candomblé without food; each dish served is an act of respect. The ingredients, preparation, and rituals carry meanings transmitted orally for generations,” explained curator Mai Katz.

Community impact and next steps

As part of the exhibition, children from the Afro-Paraguayan community of Kamba Cuá created drawings inspired by the orixás, guided by André Fernandes and curator Mai Katz. “It’s amazing to bring a piece of our culture here. This documentary work helps to dispel prejudice about Candomblé,” said the artist.

After the successful run in Asunción, the ‘Candomblé’ exhibition is set to travel to Europe in August 2026, invited once again by the UN. The project is supported by Instituto Guimarães Rosa Asunción, Itaipu Binacional, Itaú Foundation, and Eurofarma.

Service

Exhibition: ‘Candomblé’ – by André Fernandes

Location: Instituto Guimarães Rosa (IGR) Asunción – Embassy of Brazil

Period: November 14, 2025, to March 30, 2026

Visiting: By appointment via Instagram @igrasuncion.cultural