Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Unveils Exclusive Andy Soloman Photography Exhibition

Living history and artistic preservation collide at one of Southeast Asia's grandest hospitality landmarks. As part of its monumental 125th-anniversary celebrations, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has officially acquired a curated portfolio of 16 signed, limited-edition photographic prints by acclaimed British photographer Andy Soloman.

Titled The Soloman Metropole Collection, the permanent acquisition forms the centerpiece of a special exhibition running from October 9 through December 9. Entitled "Hanoi: Traces of Time," the showcase reinforces the hotel's enduring commitment to chronicling and safeguarding the rich cultural tapestry of the Vietnamese capital.

Rendered on archival Ilford Galerie Gold Fibre Pearl paper, each framed and individually editioned piece offers a poignant visual chronicle of everyday life across Hanoi. The curation captures the soulful rhythms of the city through evocative works such as Early Morning Exercise (1992), Cyclo Drivers in Hanoi’s Old Quarter (1992), Dong Xuan Market (1992), Mid-Autumn Festival Vendor (1997), and Bia Hoi Delivery by Cyclo (1997).

A Dialogue Across Decades

Soloman, whose connection to Vietnam spans over three decades following formative travels in 1992–1993, expressed deep gratitude for the permanent home awarded to his works.

"Vietnam has been central to my photography for many years, and the images in this collection come from encounters and moments that have stayed with me," Soloman reflected. "I’m delighted that Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has acquired the collection and is exhibiting it as part of the hotel’s 125th anniversary celebrations. It’s a privilege for these works to have found a permanent home at the Metropole while being shared with guests."

The artist hosted an exclusive public talk on October 10 at the hotel, recounting tales from his early years on Vietnam's streets and his subsequent emotional quest to reconnect with his subjects more than 30 years later.

A Milestone Year for a Living Legend

For General Manager George Koumendakos, the acquisition represents a natural extension of the hotel's cultural legacy during its landmark anniversary year.

"As we mark our 125th anniversary, we are deepening our engagement with art and Hanoi’s cultural heritage," Koumendakos noted. "Acquiring and exhibiting the Andy Soloman collection is an important part of this journey. These photographs capture the character and rhythm of life in Hanoi with great sensitivity, and they enrich both our art collection and the experience of our guests during this milestone year and beyond."

Blending timeless French colonial architecture with living Vietnamese history, the Metropole continues to serve as more than a luxury hotel—it stands as a true cultural institution for travelers exploring Southeast Asia.

Practical Information

• Exhibition Dates: October 9 – December 9, 2026
• Location: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, 15 Ngo Quyen Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Inquiries & Reservations: Call +84 24 3826 6919, email metropolehanoi.info@sofitel.com, or visit the Metropole Hanoi 125th Anniversary Portal.