Through a selection of 35 photographs, Réhahn shows how rich and diverse Vietnam’s ethnic culture is. His famous portraits of young kids and old women from all provinces of the country represent groups of hundred of thousand members to as few as hundreds like the ơdu or the unique portrait of a Romam. On his journey to these remote groups, he has been through several difficulties and challenges. Posing in the traditional costume, they all symbolise ancestral customs, ancient knowledges passed on from one generation to another, the challenge to protect it and the hope in keeping it alive. The Precious Heritage Collection promotes the beauty and pride of these communities that, together form the great mosaic of Vietnam’s people.
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Réhahn believes that "the most efficient way to preserve the culture of the ethnic groups is to promote them outside their community, to create a sense of pride for their heritage and ancient customs. Sometimes, you need someone else's vision to make you realize what you have.” That’s what motivated him to create the Precious Heritage Art Gallery unveiled on the 1st of January 2017 in Hoi An. Réhahn aims to give access to a maximum to this whole side of Vietnam’s identity, for people to see what’s beyond the more obvious images.
According to Prof. Dr. Vo Quang Trong, “The Precious Heritage" exhibition is another chance for the audience to explore the extraordinary beauty of different ethnic groups in Vietnam. Through the lens of the photographer, all photographs successfully showcase the natural beauty, brightness of Vietnamese people in their traditional costumes. It enriches the happiness and pride for all viewers”.
The “Precious Heritage” exhibition is open for public from August 2nd, 2017 to October 1st, 2017 at the 2nd floor, Bronze-Drum building, The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
