Paul Stokes (USA) is an amateur bonsai enthusiast from Madison, Wisconsin. A web designer, internet and computer programmer, landscaper, construction worker, Paul has long been fascinated by the miniaturization of trees in pots. He has been involved with bonsai since 2000, when his girlfriend bought him a mini-bonsai starter kit for his birthday; he became a member of Badger Bonsai Society a year later.
As an aspiring bonsai professional, I felt it was refreshing to hear a critique that was informative in regards to how to improve the exhibitors’ trees and overall displays as well as openly critical of some exhibitors’ bonsai faults. It is never fun to be on the receiving end of a negative comment, but this is the type of criticism that will lead everyone who hears it towards successful displays in the future more quickly. Every guest artist will have their own preferences and pet peeves, but if you are going to display bonsai in a contemporary Japanese display style, you should get the details right for best presence.
I enjoyed this critique in person, and found it very valuable. But a few months have passed, and memories start to fade a little. Going over my written notes is good, but it’s great to be able to review the critique in a video clip, see the trees again, hear nuances that didn’t make it into written notes. Thanks for posting these clips!
Very valuable information. You learn so much from it, I’ve red some books but when I see the video and hear the critique you’ll learn a bit how to look at trees, even when they’re very good see what can be improved, can’t wait to see part 2 and 3.
My favorite quote comes from this part of the series, “its not something we have right to pursue, its something we have a privilege to pursue” its humbling to remember, thank you
Hello Everyone! I wanted to let you know you can come see Ryan and his work in person at the upcoming ABS/BCI Show in Denver this June 21-24 ! There is only 5 Days remaining for early/cheaper registration so sign up quick!! Marc Noelanders, Larry Jackel, and Dan Robinson will all be there, Definitely worth it! hope to see you all there! http://www.bonsai2012.org/
The most concise explanation of presenting your tree in an exhibition I have witnessed. I love the fact the Ryan clears the air at the start by stating “please do not get upset” critique is important… how else do we learn. Excellent!
As an aspiring bonsai professional, I felt it was refreshing to hear a critique that was informative in regards to how to improve the exhibitors’ trees and overall displays as well as openly critical of some exhibitors’ bonsai faults. It is never fun to be on the receiving end of a negative comment, but this is the type of criticism that will lead everyone who hears it towards successful displays in the future more quickly. Every guest artist will have their own preferences and pet peeves, but if you are going to display bonsai in a contemporary Japanese display style, you should get the details right for best presence.
I enjoyed this critique in person, and found it very valuable. But a few months have passed, and memories start to fade a little. Going over my written notes is good, but it’s great to be able to review the critique in a video clip, see the trees again, hear nuances that didn’t make it into written notes. Thanks for posting these clips!
Very valuable information. You learn so much from it, I’ve red some books but when I see the video and hear the critique you’ll learn a bit how to look at trees, even when they’re very good see what can be improved, can’t wait to see part 2 and 3.
My favorite quote comes from this part of the series, “its not something we have right to pursue, its something we have a privilege to pursue” its humbling to remember, thank you
sorry that was meant for the Demo part #3
Hello Everyone! I wanted to let you know you can come see Ryan and his work in person at the upcoming ABS/BCI Show in Denver this June 21-24 ! There is only 5 Days remaining for early/cheaper registration so sign up quick!! Marc Noelanders, Larry Jackel, and Dan Robinson will all be there, Definitely worth it! hope to see you all there! http://www.bonsai2012.org/
Thanks Stefan!
Yes, see you there!
The most concise explanation of presenting your tree in an exhibition I have witnessed. I love the fact the Ryan clears the air at the start by stating “please do not get upset” critique is important… how else do we learn. Excellent!