In 2017, I came to Taiwan as a student from mainland China. I spent seven wonderful years here, experiencing the challenges and trials of cross-cultural living. Now, it is time for me to return.

Due to cross-strait policy restrictions, mainland students are not allowed to stay and work in Taiwan after graduation. Moreover, since August 1, 2019, mainland authorities have completely suspended the application and issuance of permits for individual travel to Taiwan. One challenge followed another, and in early 2020, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic plunged the entire world into fear and chaos, with cross-strait relations being no exception. As a result of the pandemic and political factors, mainland Chinese citizens can now only enter Taiwan through business, family visits, or third-party arrangements. In other words, the vast majority of people from mainland China are unable to travel to and from Taiwan.

This place, which has carried seven years of my youth, is almost like my second homeland. Yet after I graduate and return, I may never be able to come back again. Through this creation, I use Mind image photography to convey these deep, helpless, yet love-filled emotions.