A welcome addition to the Saigon arts and culture scene, a new zine, Hem HCMC, is set to launch in May and is currently seeking contributing artists and writers.

After arriving to Saigon not long ago the zine’s creator, Nicholas Santalucia, was surprised to find that while the visual arts have taken off, he was unable to find a community of English-language writers, especially considering the plethora of creative-minded expats.

“There's a list of reasons for this, I'm sure, but a lack of writers is not one of them,” said Santalucia. “Be it no forum for new work, no motivation to complete pieces, no physical community, etc.”

Hem HCMC seeks to address these shortcomings and provide a canvas for written artistic expression.

The first issue's theme is foreignness and Santalucia suspects that it's one readers will be able to relate to: “Maybe it's a bit too easy, but what can you do?”

While the zine is in English, it is not meant to cater specifically to expats. Vietnamese who feel comfortable with this style of writing are also encouraged to contribute.

"All the ingredients are here. Saigon has the people, who have the time to write and create, who have inspiration in their daily lives," said Santalucia.

Anyone with a flair for creative writing or art can help add another layer to Saigon’s growing artistic community by contributing to Hem HCMC.

For more information, visit the Hem HCMC website and Facebook page.

To contribute email: hemhcmc@gmail.com.