In a recent interview, photojournalist Melanie Friend reflected on her extraordinary trip to China in 1986, a time when the country was just beginning to open its doors to the world. At just 28 years old, she dedicated seven months to preparing for the journey, taking night classes in Mandarin. Despite her efforts, she confessed that nothing could truly prepare her for the vibrant interactions she experienced during her month-long solo adventure.
“In the cities, people were somewhat accustomed to seeing Western students, but in the rural areas, it was quite different,” Friend shared. “I was met with a lot of curiosity and an overwhelming sense of friendliness from the locals.”
The timing of her visit was perfect, aligning with a growing interest in emerging China. As a freelancer, Friend had secured commitments from several publications, including The Economist and The Times, eager to share her insights. This support allowed her to delve deeper into her explorations. “Early on in my trip, I found myself alone in a hotel room feeling quite hopeless. So I decided to take a bike and venture into the back streets. That’s when I really began to connect with people in spontaneous and meaningful ways,” she reflected.
These newfound encounters are vividly captured in her recently released short book, which celebrates the serendipity of her travels. Friend’s photography showcases a dynamic mix of first-ever advertising billboards clashing with government slogans, bicycles dominating the newly built highways, and snapshots of daily life—such as elderly men engrossed in games of Xiangqi and children captivated by comic books. A particularly memorable moment occurred in a Shanghai restaurant, where she observed a couple celebrating their wedding at a nearby table. “I noticed this joyful gathering and introduced myself, despite my limited language skills. They seemed genuinely happy at the idea of a photograph,” she recalled. “Every time I look at that image, I’m flooded with warm memories of all those beautiful interactions.”
Friend’s work, China, 1986, published by Cafe Royal Books, invites readers to experience the warmth and spontaneity of her journey through her captivating lens.
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