Vitality is a full-colour book accompanying the Vitality: Iconic Images, Hidden Stories exhibition at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre in 2025, featuring Fred Herzog’s iconic photographs of Chinatown and its surrounding neighbourhoods from the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s. Each image is paired with a story gathered through interviews, along with archival photos and historical insights uncovered by the Chinatown Storytelling Centre. Many of these photos were generously shared by interviewees—some never seen outside their families until now.
With hope at its core, Vitality celebrates the resilience and evolution of Chinatown’s communities, businesses, and cultural landmarks.
Vitality is authored by Carol Lee, Susanna Ng and Ramona Mar, with forewords by Douglas Coupland and Paul Yee.
Hardcover
160 pages, numerous colour & b/w illustrations
26 x 30 cm
Published 2025 by Vancouver Chinatown Foundation
and the Chinatown Storytelling Centre