Located in Kaohsiung, Long Fa Tang Temple has long illegally housed a large number of mentally ill patients. The Buddhist monks and nuns responsible for patient care invented the “emotion chain” therapy, linking and locking patients of varying conditions together so they cannot separate, believing this method has therapeutic effects. The Chain contains 48 portrait photographs taken by the photographer at Long Fa Tang Temple between 1993 and 1999. The book is designed with double-page spreads, with the front featuring portraits and the back appearing entirely black, but actually containing a thin line presented in 95% grayscale, echoing the theme of “the chain.” Through this book, one can see the photographer’s concern for marginalized individuals and be inspired to think about the rights and circumstances of mentally ill patients.

Published in 2002
13.5 x 19.5 cm
112 pages

Showcased as part of Lightbox Photo Library: Travelling Photobook Showcase at the 9th SIPF Photobook Showcase 2024

Artist Biography:

Born in Taiwan in 1961, Chang Chien-Chi began his professional photojournalism career in 1991 and is a lifetime member of Magnum Photos, being the first Chinese photographer to receive this honor. Chang explores abstract themes such as interpersonal alienation and connection, limitations and freedom, as well as hope and darkness through his lens, always focusing on ordinary people in real life. His works have received numerous international photography awards, with notable works including The Chain and Double Happiness.