THE compilation of artworks and poetry by the late poet, writer and artist Peng Shih Lin into a book is a poignant tribute from her five children, honouring the beautiful legacy of the scholar. Titled "A Collection of Peng Shih Lin’s Artwork", the book serves to immortalise Peng’s works, who was affectionately known by her pen name, Cui Yuan. Peng’s youngest son Leong Chao Seong shared that he was entrusted with the task of preserving her works following her passing in 2004.
"In 2010, we began the process of compiling all her works, and the book took more than five years to complete, involving compilation, translation, and editing," he said. "We managed to print 2,000 copies eight years ago, and now we've decided to officially launch it to share with the public." The bilingual compilation, presented in both Mandarin and English, was edited by the late Dr Lee Kean Yau, a former lecturer in Chinese Literature at New Era College & University.
The 183-page book features photographs and around 100 pieces of Peng’s work, including calligraphy, poems, paintings, and Chinese seals. Born in Hunan, China, in 1923, the renowned educationist, writer, calligrapher, and artist, moved to Ipoh, Perak, in 1950 after marrying tin miner Leong Sam Yuan. She taught Chinese literature at SMJK Perempuan Perak (formerly Perak Girls’ School) and later served as its headmistress from 1954 to 1978.
A mother of five, she was also an advisor to the Malaysian Calligraphy Association. Her literar.