Frank Chen, a veteran photographer based in Shanghai, said the exhibition moved him, allowing him to see beyond his previous impression of Africa. He admitted that Africa in his mind had long been dominated by the striking black-and-white images captured through the humanitarian lens of celebrated Brazilian photojournalist Sebastiao Salgado (1944-), who for decades documented Africa's unblemished landscapes, wildlife, and marginalized people, which often invoke awe and pity in the viewer.

"It's so meaningful to have such a huge showcase of contemporary African photography in Shanghai. I think this can offer Chinese audiences another perspective to look at Africa and rid us of stereotypes about Africa as a continent plagued by poverty and war," Chen said.