Portraits of Axé
A Powerful Tribute to Afro-Brazilian Heritage Debuts at A Night Under the Stars
On June 29, 2025, the Kingston Polo Club will host a special cultural moment during the prestigious gala “A Night Under the Stars”, with the debut of the photography exhibition
Portraits of Axé: Rhythm, Ancestry, and the Afro Blocos of Bahia. Curated by acclaimed Brazilian photographer Fred Pontes and produced by the international event brand D.ONE, the exhibition invites guests to experience the vibrant soul of Brazil’s most iconic street celebration.
The exhibition will feature 15 stunning images that capture the spirit, beauty and ancestral energy of Carnival in Bahia.
More than a visual display, it’s an invitation to feel — and understand — the soul of a people who turn struggle into celebration and tradition into art. A cultural bridge between Brazil and Jamaica, united by drums, history, and joy.
SO shares an exclusive peek
Olodum Performing at “Furdunço” Members of Olodum captivate audiences with a street performance during “Furdunço,” an informal cultural event that precedes Carnival, blending rehearsal with ritual. Fred Pontes
Olodum Parade – Barra District, Salvador Carnival The iconic bloco Olodum brings vibrant rhythm and ancestral energy to the streets of Barra during Salvador’s Carnival, uniting percussion, performance, and political presence.Fred Pontes
Ilê Aiyê’s Black Beauty Day – Curuzu District Celebrating black beauty, dignity, and heritage, Ilê Aiyê hosts “Noite da Beleza Negra” in its historic neighbourhood of Curuzu, crowning queens of African ancestry and pride. Fred Pontes
Capoeira in the Streets Revellers spontaneously engage in capoeira, the Afro-Brazilian martial art that embodies resistance, rhythm, and ritual—a dance of memory and liberation.Fred Pontes
Olodum Parade – Barra, Salvador Carnival A powerful aerial view of the Olodum bloco leading a massive crowd through the Barra district, embodying the sound and soul of Salvador’s Afro Carnival. Fred Pontes
Joy in Motion – Olodum Youth in Pelourinho A young musician from Olodum’s youth school leaps with joy during a vibrant street parade in Salvador’s historic Pelourinho district. Dressed in the group’s traditional colours, he embodies the exuberance, rhythm, and cultural pride of Bahia’s Afro-Brazilian legacy.Fred Pontes
Preparations – Afoxé Filhos de Gandhy, Pelourinho Moments before the procession begins, members of Afoxé Filhos de Gandhy prepare in Pelourinho, evoking serenity, strength, and spiritual devotion rooted in African ancestry. Fred Pontes
Member of Afoxé Filhos de Gandhy Dressed in white with ritualistic beads and symbols, a member of the Filhos de Gandhy honours peace and ancestral lineage through presence and tradition. Fred Pontes
