Kalabongó, published by RM, is the latest book by Jorge Panchoaga, a Colombian photographer known for visual narratives that explore the historical legacy and multiple identities of his country.
In this series, he highlights the historical significance of a community of Afro-descendant slaves on the Colombian coast, who played a crucial role in the historic independence treaty of 1605 with the Spanish Crown. This heritage, little known today, still endures in San Basilio de Palenque, the focal point of this photographic series.
All the images in the book appear to have been taken at night and are presented against a vivid red background. The title, Kalabongó—which means “firefly”—suggests that, like a spark igniting in the darkness, the night has often been a precious ally in the struggles for freedom.
available at the bookstore
