Biennale Photo Hanoi '25 returns, awakening the creative space of the Capital

In November, Hanoi will officially enter the “golden season” of international photography with the Photo Hanoi ’25 event. More than just a series of exhibitions, this event is expected to become a launching pad, putting the capital Hanoi on the map of Asian artistic creativity.

A multinational, colorful art playground

Following the success of the previous two seasons, Photo Hanoi '25 witnessed a remarkable development in scale when gathering a strong creative force. The event gathered more than 170 artists, photographers, curators and experts from 21 countries, along with 25 accompanying professional organizations. This number not only shows the stature but also affirms the growing attraction of the event in the international art community.

Biennale Photo Hanoi '25 takes place from November 1 to 30, 2025.

Throughout November, the public will enjoy a diverse art feast with 22 completely free solo and group photography exhibitions along with 29 side events ranging from seminars, workshops, art tours to film screenings and portfolio reviews. The richness of exhibitions and side activities shows the effort to bring photography out of the framework of traditional exhibition spaces, so that art becomes a part of urban life. The free events also show the spirit of openness and community orientation, making it easier for the public to access contemporary art. This is not only an opportunity for viewers to enjoy, but also an opportunity for dialogue, to look at photography as a way to tell stories, preserve and recreate life through visual language.

Art permeates every corner of life

One of the most distinctive features of Photo Hanoi '25 is the art being taken out of the closed spaces, turning the entire city into a vibrant "photography museum". In addition to familiar locations such as the Exhibition House at 45 Trang Tien, 93 Dinh Tien Hoang, the French Institute in Vietnam or the Vincom Center for Contemporary Art (VCCA)... the public will encounter works of art in prominent public spaces such as Dien Hong flower garden, Hoan Kiem Lake, the wall of the Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam or the facade of the French Embassy. Taking art out of traditional exhibition spaces not only helps to narrow the gap between artists and the public, but also contributes to renewing the urban appearance. The photos placed in the midst of daily life make passersby become spectators, so that photography is no longer the exclusive domain of the creative community but becomes a familiar voice, suggesting the culture, memories and people of Hanoi .

The theme of Photo Hanoi '25 is expanded, reflecting contemporary issues. From historical memories, Hanoi's urban landscape to hot global issues such as climate change and the relationship between humans and nature. This approach helps photography go beyond the framework of a pure art form, becoming a language that tells profound stories about society and humanity.

Hanoi Cultural Rendezvous

This event is not only a cultural festival, but also a vivid demonstration of the strength of international cooperation and the cultural vision of the Capital. At the press conference to launch Photo Hanoi '25, Ms. Bach Lien Huong, Director of the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports , emphasized: "Photo Hanoi '25 demonstrates Hanoi's strong commitment to implementing cultural initiatives and projects within the framework of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network through organizing events associated with diversifying forms of artistic creativity; promoting international cooperation and cultural integration between Hanoi and countries in the region and the world; making a meaningful contribution to making Hanoi a regional creative center."

Ms. Bach Lien Huong - Director of Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports spoke at the press conference. Photo: NGO THOM

Behind that success is a strong international partnership network. Mr. Eric Soulier, Director of the French Institute in Vietnam, said that Photo Hanoi is not only a simple cultural event, but also the result of a process of cooperation, dialogue and strong trust between France and Vietnam over many years, and is also a testament to the growth of the artist community and creative organizations from both countries. The support of embassies, cultural centers and prestigious art organizations has raised the status and professional quality, affirming Hanoi's position on the global creative map.

Photo Hanoi '25 is not just a month of art festivals. It is laying an important foundation for a future where Hanoi will be an indispensable meeting place for contemporary photographers. The event opens the door of opportunity for Vietnamese artists to stand side by side with international friends, learn and create cross-border collaborations./.

Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/van-hoa/doi-song/biennale-photo-hanoi-25-tro-lai-danh-thuc-khong-gian-sang-tao-cua-thu-do-908329