bonsaiweb

This is a really thought-provoking thread. It raises, for me, another question. Which is more important, the end result of the training or the process of getting there?

I suppose that when one reaches a level of mastery in technique (as Walter has), that the product is the most important aspect. For me, as a relative beginner, I am still learning so much about the technique that I am really focused on the process. Of course, I want to do things that produce nice trees, but I enjoy the process of developing the tree and learning in the process.

One of my teachers taught me early on that every tree should tell a story and I like the process of playing storyteller in shaping the tree and its future.

It does give one pause to think that in 20 years, when my skills have really developed (I mean in 20 years they *must* develop, right?) that I would look back and think that I had wasted my time on poor material. Then again, maybe it is the process of training a tree like that Maple over 20 years that produces a great artist like Walter! Perhaps if one only works with the very best material, then one never learns the creativity that accompanies working with less perfect stock.

Still need to think more about this one.

Doug

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