In the Dark, There are Lanterns

Anonymous

An iPhone 13 Pro was used to capture this image.

• Artist Statement

  At the end of the Bui Vien Walking Street, Vietnamese lanterns are hung, illuminating the surrounding darkness. On a pedestrian-only street famous for its appeal to foreign backpackers, the presence of traditional, non-neon sources of light reminds each visitor of Vietnam’s vast history and culture, an element that I want to keep close during my return to my motherland. These cultural elements remind me of my đồng bào, my people, who are working hard to make a living in these tourism-based economies, whether it be through working in the nightlife, food, or beauty industries. Perhaps, for them, these lanterns may also serve as a beacon of hope for the future, a sign that their hard work will pay off. For me, it is both.

• Creative Statement

  Creativity, to me, is sharing my story and insights through an artistic medium. Whether it be creative writing, design, or photography, I hope that I can share the lens through which I see the world. Together, we can expand our worldview, our culture, and our beliefs through appreciation of art.