Voodoo

by Alberto Venzago

An unprecedented glimpse into the mysterious world of Voodoo, this spellbinding companion to an upcoming documentary produced by Wim Wenders presents photos and film stills by celebrated photojournalist Alberto Venzago. In 1988, Albert Venzago set out to cross Africa on a Vespa. After miles in the blistering heat, it broke down in a remote village in Benin. There he encountered Mahounon, one of the most influential voodoo priests of West Africa. Abandoning his planned trip, Venzago set out instead on an odyssey through the world of African voodoo, to which he and his camera gained extraordinary access. The result is a groundbreaking new documentary and this accompanying book. Venzago followed Mahounon with his camera for nearly ten years, filming secret Voodoo ceremonies and sacrificial rituals. He witnessed Mahounon’s extraordinary search for a successor to lead the cult, and he watched as the anointed eleven-year old boy was schooled in black and white magic, rituals, and the intricate workings of the Fa, or Voodoo oracle. Venzago’s camera evokes the religious ecstasy of these ceremonies as well as their otherworldly atmosphere. His photographs illuminate this mysterious and potent Voodoo culture and religion.

224 pages, Paperback

First published October 17, 2003

Reviews

[Ugh · Rating 1 out of 5]

There are about a dozen interesting photos in this book; the remaining 200-odd pages fall into one of two categories: massively magnified and consequently enormously pixelated black and white (mainly black) images of pretty much nothing, or dull, ordinary, uninspired portraits of people looking either very bored or just straight into the lens with a slight frown. I'm not sure the book is worth the air it displaces, let alone the money I paid for it. If anyone wants a copy, I'll trade you one for half a Pot Noodle...

[Katta · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting images and information but it felt sensationalized and full of colonialist undertones, which I found problematic. 2.5 stars.

[Jamil · Rating 2 out of 5]

the design elements of crossed-out text, and the color pictures of fetishes in the middle, are the only bits that really interested me. purchased used several years ago in Somerville, Ma, unread until now. disappointed to discover that along with the book, based on a film made by Venzago & produced by Wim Wenders, there was supposed to be a CD of ritual recordings included as well.

[Hatebeams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I understand the critical reviews on this page but have to disagree. There's plenty of information in here and if anything, the chaotic, fragmented layout of the book gives each scrap of it more life. A GREAT READ ON DRUGS.