‘Vietnam in 1980s’ highlighted through lens of French journalist

Photos featuring Vietnam in the 1980s by French reporter Michel Blanchard are being showcased at an exhibition which officially kicked off on April 8 at the French Cultural Centre L'Espace in Hanoi.

Journalist Michel Blanchard is introducing his photo on an electrical tram on Hang Dao Street in 1984. (Credit: tuoitre.vn)
Journalist Michel Blanchard is introducing his photo on an electrical tram on Hang Dao Street in 1984. (Credit: tuoitre.vn)

Through 50 photos, Michel Blanchard, who was head of the representative office of French News Agency (AFP) in Vietnam from 1981 to 1983, depicted the daily life in several provinces and cities around Vietnam during ten years.

The highlight of the exhibition is images of the life and people in Hanoi where he lived and worked during the two years.

The exhibition is presented as a proof of the historical period, helping visitors reminisce about the country 30 years ago, particularly Hanoi’s streets with electric trams and flower markets on the occasion of the Lunar New Year.

After finishing his term in Vietnam, Michel Blanchard returned to Vietnam many times to write about Vietnam’s development after the wars and has written numerous books introducing Vietnamese culture and tourism.

Michel Blanchard said that he captured the moments in Vietnam, particularly in Hanoi, with his love for the land and friendly people.

The exhibits feature a part of national history, contributing to educating younger generations about the past period of the country, noted historian Duong Trung Quoc.

The exhibition will last until April 30.

Some selections from the exhibition:

A flower market for Tet (Lunar New Year) in Hanoi

‘Vietnam in 1980s’ highlighted through lens of French journalist ảnh 2

An electrical tram on Dinh Tien Hoang Street in Hanoi in 1983

‘Vietnam in 1980s’ highlighted through lens of French journalist ảnh 3

Houses on Hang Dao Street in 1984