"To advance further, one must work on both aspects, theoretical and practical. Combining both is the key to balance."
During a video call, Professor Lin Tao stroked his beard, wagging a finger as he imparted this advice.
Art is a very personalized discipline.
In theory,
the difficulties each painter faces are different.
The barriers that restrict a painter from advancing to the next level also vary from person to person.
The breakthrough path suitable for one painter might not work for another. Outsiders' advice can be as futile as carving a boat to find a sword.
In such times, the advantage of having a mentor-level elder around to consult becomes significantly apparent.
Lin Tao himself went through this stage.
His fellow students, those carefully selected from the top talents at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, mostly experienced this phase as well.
