Home Lifestyle Experience Vietnam’s Yesteryears Through the Nostalgic Lens of a Posthumous Ukrainian Artist.

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Experience Vietnam’s Yesteryears Through the Nostalgic Lens of a Posthumous Ukrainian Artist.

Nearly a century ago, Sofia Yablonska, a talented Ukrainian writer, photographer, and filmmaker, embarked on a journey to Vietnam, driven by her insatiable curiosity and passion for exploration. Over the course of a decade, Yablonska immersed herself in the local culture, capturing the essence of Vietnamese daily life and the breathtaking landscapes through her camera lens.

Administrator

12 November, 2024

A captivating exhibition titled ‘Sofia Yablonska – Journey through Centuries’ is currently adorning the walls of the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts. On display are 55 documents, photos, and videos by the talented Ukrainian artist, offering a glimpse into the past and a unique perspective on Vietnam.

The exhibition, hosted by the Embassy of Ukraine in Vietnam, commemoratessection> marks a significant milestone – the 32nd anniversary of Ukraine-Vietnam diplomatic ties. It invites visitors to embark on a journey through time, exploring the natural landscapes and daily life of Vietnam in the 1930-40s, captured beautifully in black-and-white photos and accompanied by heartfelt writings.

Nguyen Minh Nhut (L), Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports, and Ukrainian Ambassador to Vietnam Gaman Oleksandr inaugurate the exhibition. Photo: H. Vy / Tuoi Tre

Yablonska’s images and documents about Vietnam transport viewers back in time, allowing them to experience the charm of this captivating country firsthand. From the northern mountainous region to Ha Long Bay, the ancient city of Hanoi to the Hue Imperial Citadel, and the diverse ethnic minority groups, her work showcases a Vietnam that is both timeless and enchanting.

Born in Hermaniv Village, Ukraine, in 1907, Yablonska began her travels in Paris in 1927. Her journey was a success, leading her to sign a contract with a French film studio to create documentaries about people and cultures in various countries, including Vietnam.

She and her French husband, Jean Oudin, made Vietnam their home for a decade, designing two villas on Ba Na Hills in Da Nang and Da Lat. During their time in the country, they welcomed their second son.

Ukrainian writer, photographer, and filmmaker Sofia Yablonska

Yablonska’s love for Vietnam is evident in her work and her diary entries, where she refers to the country as ‘a magical and enchanting land.’ She was fascinated by the northern mountainous region, reminding her of the Carpathian Mountains back home. Her passion for Vietnam extended beyond her art, as she also advocated for the upliftment of women’s perspectives and created a new behavioral model for women, encouraging them to dream and take action.

Through her art and writings, Yablonska has left an indelible mark on the cultural connection between Vietnam and Ukraine. Her work, showcased in this exhibition, offers a unique window into the past and a deeper understanding of the two countries’ shared history.

A photo of a Thai ethnic minority group in Vietnam taken by Yablonska

A Deeper Understanding of Vietnam-Ukraine Culture

According to Ukrainian Ambassador to Vietnam Gaman Oleksandr, Yablonska was an intrepid traveler who inspired others to explore the world. Her photos, he explains, offer a window into the past, shedding light on Vietnam’s history, culture, and traditions.

The exhibition, curated by the museum’s director and painter Tran Thanh Binh, aims to provide young Vietnamese generations with a unique perspective on their country’s past and present, as seen through the lens of a European artist. It also celebrates the cultural connection and evolution between Vietnam and Ukraine.