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Originally Posted by Attila
Rockm,
Curious what you guys think,
Attila
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Attila,
I tell you what I think in plain terms;
There is no registered trademark attached to the word bonsai. The word itself is Japanese in origin, but the art form is not their EXCLUSIVE property. Therefore anyone, anywhere, has as much right to enjoy it in their own way as the Japanese master in Kyoto. Even someone like Fred has a right to his rustic bonsai style if that is what he wants to do.
This Japanese requirement we hear so much about is borderline arrogance, if not outright so. What is most ironic - and I've said this many times - is usually the biggest, most vocal, "champions" of
Japanese-only bonsai styling AREN'T Japanese!
The person you mention who says figurines are no-no's has every right to his opinion. He is not Emperor de facto, however.
As with so many things, the value of our efforts vary greatly with the judges who grade them, but only if that is YOUR measure of worth.
In conclusion I will continue to believe we are honoring the Japanese by recognizing their wonderful efforts while trying to take bonsai to a higher level, but no limiting ourselves for the sake of avoiding controversy. I suspect you feel the same.
Best regards,
John