THE HANOI TIMES — The captivating exhibition, Continuum: Vietnam, chronicles Vietnam’s remarkable evolution over three decades, from its post-embargo struggles to its emergence as a vibrant Southeast Asian economy.
Three decades later, Andy Soloman reconnects with the Vietnamese subjects of his early photographs, capturing their essence once more.
On display from November 1 to 30 at the Ho Guom Cultural Information Center, 2 Le Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi, this exhibition is a must-see.
Featuring 21 new portraits of individuals or their descendants from Soloman’s 1992–1993 series, alongside 30 archival images of those still being sought, the exhibition offers a profound glimpse into Vietnam’s transformation.
Together, these images weave an intimate narrative of Vietnam’s journey, from the serene rhythms of rural life to the pulsating energy of its modern cities. Through Soloman’s lens, the nation’s resilience, continuity, and cultural identity are vividly brought to life.
Between 2022 and 2024, Soloman revisited the people and places he first photographed in the early 1990s, traveling through the Central Highlands, northern mountains, Hanoi, and the Red River Delta.
Armed with his camera and original journals, he retraced his steps, seeking the faces and families once immortalized on black-and-white film, now searching for remnants of the past or fading negatives.
Supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the British Council in Vietnam, this project underscores a shared dedication to preserving the human stories that drive national progress.
It celebrates intergenerational learning, adaptation, and the transmission of values, skills, and memories that continue to shape Vietnam’s unique cultural identity.
From the innocence of youth to the elegance of middle age, Soloman’s lens captures the enduring story of a Vietnamese woman’s life.
For Soloman, Continuum: Vietnam is deeply personal and profoundly poetic.
“My connection to Vietnam is a continuous journey of friendship, discovery, and shared history. Reuniting with individuals I photographed over 30 years ago has been an incredibly moving experience, a testament to the lasting bonds that have shaped my life and work,” he reflects.
Soloman views Continuum: Vietnam not merely as a photographic project, but as “a journey of friendship and continuity,” where art becomes a vessel for memory and gratitude.
“Each photograph is a tribute to the Vietnamese people who welcomed me as a friend and allowed me to share in their lives,” he adds.
The exhibition also resonates deeply with its partners. James Shipton, Country Director of the British Council in Vietnam, praises Soloman’s dedication: “Each image tells a story that continues to unfold, reflecting our commitment to strengthening ties with Vietnam through the transformative power of art.”
A long-time Hanoi resident in the 1990s, Andy Soloman worked as a photojournalist for international publications before joining Reuters in 1997. He now divides his time between the UK and Vietnam, focusing on travel and fine art photography.
With Continuum: Vietnam, Soloman guides viewers on an emotional journey through time, mirroring the nation’s story of endurance, renewal, and connection.
Through his lens, Vietnam’s past and present converge, creating a living narrative that unfolds in every face and frame.
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