Maria Bethânia Shown as Deity in Bahia Exhibit

What is the "Abelha Rainha" Exhibition About?

The show "Abelha rainha – Vida, música, amor e poesia" (Queen Bee – Life, Music, Love and Poetry) opened its doors to the public on July 24 in Salvador, Bahia, and runs until September 24. Entry is free. The exhibition was conceived by photographer and curator Mário Edson to mark the 80th birthday of Maria Bethânia, celebrated on June 18.

Who Are the Artists Involved?

Twenty-five visual artists contributed works spanning photography, drawing, painting and installation. Several pieces weave symbols and signs rooted in Afro-Brazilian religions into Bethânia's image, reinforcing the sacred aura that surrounds her both on and off stage.

Which Works Stand Out?

One of the most striking pieces is "Quem é você?" (Who Are You?), an imposing oil painting created on an umbrella by artist Rogério Silva. Another highlight is "Onde mora a luz" (Where Light Lives), a drawing on canvas by Pablo Araújo, whose rendering of Bethânia's white hair echoes the intentionally aged image on the 1983 album Ciclo. Works by Bianca Branco ("Menina de Oyá"), Manuela Hereda and an installation by Wagner Lacerda — featuring verses from Bethânia's most spiritually charged repertoire — complete a portrait of an artist who has commanded the stage for 63 years.

Where Exactly Is the Venue?

The gallery Me Ateliê da Fotografia sits in the Santo Antônio Além do Carmo neighbourhood, close to the historic Pelourinho district. The vernissage took place on the evening of July 22; the show is now open daily from 4 p.m. onwards, free of charge.