Exhibition 'Continued: Vietnam' - A photographic journey through time

Works on display at the exhibition “Continued: Vietnam”. (Photo in article: Organizing Committee)

“Continued: Vietnam” is the highlight of the Photo Hanoi '25 International Photography Festival initiated by the French Institute in Vietnam with the accompaniment of the United Nations Educational , Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to honor the art of photography as a bridge of cultural exchange between Vietnam and the world.

Through more than 50 works by British photojournalist Andy Soloman taken in two periods 1992-1993 and 2022-2024, “Continued: Vietnam” opens an emotional perspective on Vietnam’s journey of more than three decades of strong transformation through emotional meetings and reunions.

The exhibition attracted the attention of a large audience of art lovers.

Among the works on display, the exhibition introduces 21 black and white portraits recently re-made by Mr. Andy Soloman, recreating the images of the characters, or their descendants, that he had photographed in 1992-1993. The remaining 30 precious documentary photos from the early 1990s, capturing the moments of the people whose traces he is still tirelessly searching for.

Each photo tells a story about the vitality, faith and aspirations of the Vietnamese people during the renovation period. At the same time, it shows profound changes in society, environment and cultural life, where traditional values gradually blend with modern life in an increasingly dynamic and connected community.

British photojournalist Andy Soloman shares about the works on display at the exhibition.

According to Andy Soloman, this exhibition reflects his deep connection with Vietnam over the past 33 years. This relationship has been shaped by a continuous journey of friendship, exploration and shared history. In particular, meeting some of the people he photographed over 30 years ago was an extremely emotional experience and a testament to the strong connections that have shaped his life and career as a photographer.

“This exhibition is my tribute to the people of Vietnam, who welcomed me as a friend and allowed me to share their lives many years ago. It is also a celebration of the country’s extraordinary development, seen through the lens of personal connection and long-term engagement. By documenting these stories over a long period of time, I hope to provide a unique perspective on Vietnam’s transformation,” said Andy Soloman.

Mr. Matt Jackson - Chief Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Vietnam spoke at the exhibition.

Speaking at the exhibition, Mr. Matt Jackson - Chief Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Vietnam emphasized: “The exhibition “Continuing: Vietnam” is not simply a collection of photos. It is a thread connecting the past and future of Vietnam, a tribute to the people who have gone through many profound changes with the country. And above all, the exhibition reminds us of something extremely important: in a rapidly aging society, each generation has a role in preserving memories and together building a fair, inclusive and sustainable future for everyone.”

The exhibition “Continued: Vietnam” is open until November 30 at the Hoan Kiem Cultural Information Center, 2 Le Thai To, Hanoi .