Foam Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam Spotlights Byron Mohammad Hamzah's 'All That Is Left Is Us'
Foam Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam is highlighting the compelling work of Byron Mohammad Hamzah, recognized as a Foam Talent runner-up. His poignant series, Yang Ting gal Hanya Kita (All That Is Left Is Us), delves into themes of family, memory, and personal history, offering visitors a profound look into intimate narratives. This powerful photographic project is featured in Foam Magazine #68: Talent.
Exploring the Personal Narratives in 'All That Is Left Is Us'
Byron Mohammad Hamzah’s series draws from his family archives, weaving together a complex tapestry of secrets, wounds, and enduring love. One notable piece in the collection presents four images of a woman, set against a vibrant yellow floral backdrop. She is depicted smiling in a white dress, lounging in a bedroom, with one arm resting gently on her visibly pregnant belly. The artist has meticulously stitched over the pregnancy bump with cotton thread, using a red rosette to symbolize the embryo, a yellow circle for fleeting happiness, and a green cross representing life itself. A Jawi Malay caption, integrated into the photograph, translates to 'the womb.'
Another striking photograph, captured years later, features the same woman seated on a bed, her head turned away. A white veil, known as a telekung, is pulled over her shoulder, revealing a long scar. Red stitched lines radiate from this wound, extending across the entire image, accompanied by the caption 'a mother and her scars.' These works collectively form a narrative where the artist’s mother emerges as a central figure, embodying both complexity and tender affection amidst a challenging personal history.
About the Artist: Byron Mohammad Hamzah's Vision
Byron Mohammad Hamzah is a Malaysian documentary photographer whose work is deeply informed by his unique background. Before pursuing photography, Hamzah practiced medicine for over ten years. This extensive experience as a medical doctor cultivated a keen sense of observation, emotional connection, and empathy, qualities that are evident in his photographic explorations.
Now based between Malaysia and the UK, Hamzah honed his craft with a Master's degree in Photojournalism and Documentary Photography from the University of the Arts, London. His primary interests lie in navigating social issues, exploring identity, examining cultural clashes, and documenting the lives of marginalized communities. Through his art, Hamzah integrates his medical insights with a passion for visual storytelling, creating work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Foam Talent Program and Magazine Feature
Byron Mohammad Hamzah’s inclusion as a Foam Talent runner-up signifies recognition for his distinctive approach to contemporary photography. His series, Yang Ting gal Hanya Kita (All That Is Left Is Us), is extensively covered in Foam Magazine #68: Talent, published in June 2026. This edition features contributions, including text by Isabel Walter, who serves as Assistant Curator at Foam and Editorial Assistant at Foam Magazine. Interested readers can order a copy of the magazine to delve further into Hamzah’s compelling project and the work of other emerging photographers.
This spotlight on Byron Mohammad Hamzah’s artistry offers a compelling reason to visit Foam Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam. To explore other exhibitions currently running or discover more cultural spots in Amsterdam, you can browse Musemap (musemap.art) for what's on or explore other museums.
