TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwanese photographer Shen Chao-liang (沈昭良) spoke during an award ceremony in Tokyo on Monday (June 3).

He said the international award from the Photographic Society of Japan (PSJ) encouraged him and Taiwan. Shen called it “the greatest support and acknowledgment for his cultural home.”

The PSJ recognized Shen for his role as a bridge between Japanese and Taiwanese photography. He created dialogues with photographers from neighboring countries, per CNA.

In his speech, Shen thanked those who helped him and most importantly, his late teacher Chang Chao-tang (張照堂). He told CNA that he wished to keep improving his skills.

He hoped his pursuit of excellence would encourage fellow photographers to hone their craft. In doing so, Shen thought the world might see Taiwan through photography.

Shen was the second Taiwanese to receive an award from the PSJ. The first was Long Chin-san (郎靜山) 36 years ago.