Zine #170

“Next Stop Samoa” is a photographic exploration of Samoa’s culture, viewed through the lens of its traditional buses. These buses, mostly used by locals, offered me a unique way to connect with the Samoan way of life during my nearly two year stay in Apia, the country’s capital. Before arriving on Upolu Island, I had my own set of assumptions about Samoa, but living there allowed me to see beyond them. Through this project, I found that buses are much more than just a means of transportation. Each bus, with its handcrafted wooden frame and vibrant decorations, reflects the community’s identity, spirituality, and resilience. Observing the daily routines at the bus station and the diverse passengers they serve, gave me an authentic glimpse into the rhythm of life in Samoa. From the early hours until the last bus leaves, these vehicles connect remote villages to the capital, playing a crucial role in the island’s daily life.

“Next Stop Samoa” aims to present a different perspective of Samoa, one that goes beyond the typical images of a tropical paradise. It’s an invitation to look deeper into the everyday lives of the people who live there, revealing the cultural richness and sense of community that define the island.

- Lorenzo Catena, August 2024

Published by Bump Books
Edited by David Solomons
Publication date: November 2024
Size: 210mm x 148mm
Cover: uncoated 170gsm digital
Text: uncoated 120gsm digital
Pages: 32
Images: 25
Printed in the UK
Edition of 200