THEN AND NOW by Datsun Tran
Refugees have been out of sight and out of mind. We are often dehumanised in the media and by politicians. This book is important because it visualises and humanises a refugee story.
—Behrouz Boochani
An astounding work of light and shadow, this poetic and profound book is a rare treasure.
—Zeno Sworder
Datsun Tran has distilled the essence of hope with the absolute clarity of experience lived, felt and shared. Then and Now offers a glimpse of what is at stake through the eyes of our children; the future, the reason and reward. This book is a star in the darkness!
—Abdul-Rahman Abdullah
In his picture-book debut, contemporary artist Datsun Tran tells his family’s story of making a new home after journeying by boat from Vietnam as refugees. In vivid ink paintings and spare, resonant text, Then and Now explores the powerful associations a sound, smell or sensation can carry. Young readers are warmly welcomed into two immersive, multi-sensory and strikingly different worlds: then and now.
Datsun Tran combines traditional and modern materials and processes to make ink paintings inspired by classical Chinese brushwork. He explores themes of conflict and utopia, childhood and the relationship between different cultures. His subject matter is often filtered through the lens of what we have in common, rather than what separates us.
Ages 3+
March 2024
182mm x 300mm // hardback with copper foil stamping // CMYK // 28 pages