bonsaiweb

At some level, bonsai is a representational art form. Accordingly, there are conventions about what makes a bonsai a good approximation of a tree in nature (or a bad one). There are also some rules which serve more practical purposes (e.g. cutting bar branches not only makes a tree look better, but prevents forming a large area from forming in the middle of the trunk).

These conventions establish a standard which people more or less conform too.

Now, that said. I am all for "breaking" the rules. That is very different from disregarding them or being unaware of them. The times when breaking the rules is appropriate is when the tree demands it. And when the tree demands it and you recognize it, then you are on your way to creating art.

People often forget that the great artists of our time could draw and paint perfectly. It is only once you master the rules that you can step beyond them in any meaningful way.

Art is not only expression, but communication. It doesn't happen in a vacuum.

All that said, the most artistic and beautiful style to me has always been Bunjin, for many of the reasons outlined aobve.

Doug

__________________
http://www.bonsaiweb.com