Antonio Oloxedê

Was born in Salvador, Brazil, in 1967, where he currently lives and works. Both an artist and priest of Ilê Asipà — one of the last remaining centers dedicated to the Baba Egun tradition, a spiritual practice of West African origin that survives today only in Brazil — Oloxedê draws from the symbolic imagery of Yoruba culture to shape his creative expression.

His work reinterprets ancestral ritual tools associated with the orixás and African ancestors, blending spiritual heritage with contemporary language. Through the use of palm fronds, bells, and cowrie shells — materials rich in symbolism — he contributes to the preservation and continuity of Afro-Brazilian religious practices, while maintaining the secrecy that protects the sacred foundations of African-based traditions. His compositions often feature bold, vibrant colors that evoke the personal and spiritual layers of the rituals.

Oloxedê is also responsible for safeguarding the legacy of his grandfather, Mestre Didi — a renowned artist, priest, and scholar who founded Ilê Asipà. His work has been featured in exhibitions at the Centro Cultural da Barroquinha (formerly a terreiro), the Museum of Modern Art of Bahia (MAM-BA), and the Museum of Art of Rio (MAR).

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Text: Blombô research and curation, with the support of artificial intelligence for content writing and structuring.