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In a world in search of models of resilience and determination, a Vietnamese woman, Xuân Phuong, emerges as an emblematic figure. At the dawn of its 95 years old, she was honored by the BBC by integrating the list of 100 most inspiring women for the year 2024. His journey, rich in contributions to art and culture, testifies to a life dedicated to transformation and the promotion of creativity, while making Vietnam’s name shine on the international stage .
The Vietnamese director Xuân Phuong was revealed by the BBC as one of 100 most inspiring women in 2024. This distinction highlights her exceptional career, marked by her commitment to art and culture, as well as her pioneering role in supporting young artists. Through her works and her gallery, she embodies a resilience and a desire to transform perceptions of Vietnam on the world stage.
An extraordinary journey
Born in 1929 in Hue, Xuân Phuong grew up in a noble family. His involvement in the Vietnamese revolution began as a teenager, at the age of 16. Throughout her life, she played various roles, from doctor to war journalist, before becoming a director at the Vietnam National Television and owner of the Lotus art gallery. His documentary films, such as Vietnam goes to chiêc xe dap And Khi nu cuoi tro lai, offer a poignant testimony to the realities of the war in Vietnam, mixing both pain and hope.
A late but powerful feather
Although Xuân Phuong began writing his memoirs at the age of 90, his first work, Ganh ganh gong gong, won the Literary Prize of the Vietnamese Writers Association in 2020. This captivating account not only presents his life during the wars, but also his contributions to various fields. In September 2024, she released her second book, Khac di…khac dên, which was a huge success, with more than 4,000 copies sold in a few months.
Unwavering support for artists
Xuân Phuong has always been a fervent defender of Vietnamese artists. His gallery, Lotus, opened in 1991, was a bold project at a time when private initiatives in Vietnam were rare. She used her savings to purchase the works of emerging artists and give them visibility on the international scene. Thanks to his support, many artists have been able to realize their potential and gain recognition.
International recognition
In 2011, Xuân Phuong was honored by the French government with the Legion of Honor, in recognition of his efforts towards Franco-Vietnamese friendship. Today, as she celebrates the 30th anniversary of her gallery, she is preparing a new book entitled Colors without borders, in which she recounts her journey and the challenges she encountered during her career.
An inspiring legacy
At 95 years old, Xuân Phuong remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration for future generations. Her determination to turn challenges into opportunities has made her a cultural icon. Through its commitment to art and by supporting emerging artists, it ensures the sustainability of its legacy. The Lotus Gallery will continue to be a springboard for talents, reflecting its vision of a rich and vibrant Vietnamese art.
FAQ about Xuân Phuong, the inspiring Vietnamese woman
Q: Who is Xuân Phuong? Xuân Phuong is a Vietnamese filmmaker, author and owner of Lotus Art Gallery, recognized for her significant contribution to culture and art in Vietnam.
Q: Why was Xuân Phuong selected by the BBC? She is among the 100 most inspiring women of 2024, due to her resilience and commitment to transforming the international perception of Vietnam through her art.
Q: What is Xuân Phuong’s background in his country? Born in 1929, she became involved in the Vietnamese revolution at the age of 16, and worked in several professions, including doctor, war journalist and director.
Q: What types of films has Xuân Phuong made? She made documentary films capturing the realities of the war in Vietnam, such as Vietnam goes to chiêc xe dap And Khi nu cuoi tro lai.
Q: Did Xuân Phuong write any books? Yes, she has published several works including her memoirs, Ganh ganh gong gong, and a second book entitled Khac di…khac dên, which were very successful.
Q: How important is the Lotus Gallery? Lotus Art Gallery, founded by Xuân Phuong, plays a vital role in promoting Vietnamese contemporary art and supporting emerging artists.
Q: How much recognition has Xuân Phuong received for her contributions? In 2011, she was awarded the Legion of Honor by the French government for her efforts in promoting Franco-Vietnamese relations.
Q: What message does Xuân Phuong wish to convey through her art? She aspires to change the perception of Vietnam by highlighting its cultural richness, beyond the wounds of war.