United with the beloved, unable to part: Lin Bai vs. Cai Jin

Author: Lin Bai / Cai Jinhui
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-10-01
Features: What makes this book particularly interesting is the relationship formed between the writer and the artist. They became the half and the other half, and thus composed the part of the heart that is both precious and lingering in every different stage of life. There is something in Lin Bai's writing that resonates with me. When reading her works, I am often surprised: How could she know what I think? — Visual and textual collaboration is no longer a novel concept, yet Between Masters still stands out as unique and worth reading. This is primarily due to its chosen perspective of "dialogue," which allows both text and image to truly stand on an equal footing. Each book in the series features around 200 artworks, almost comprehensively including all works by the artists over the years, both old and new. The writers have selected pieces that best reflect their style and spiritual pursuits—some are famous works, some are new creations, some are recognized masterpieces, and some are simply works the authors personally favor. Against this backdrop, literature and painting in the book are perfectly balanced in strength. Each is a protagonist, with none needing to accommodate the other or to follow suit. They each freely express their individuality and characteristics, presenting their complete and beautiful selves to the readers.