Earl

I'm with many of you who have said this thread has helped them define their own ideas about art. I have spent much time over the past couple years thinking about the issue. This thread helps me see that the whole discussion borders on the ridculous. We are who are, doing what we do. Some will create trees that they or others see as artistic. Some will see themelves as hobbyists or craftsman. Some continue to think that one counrty or another is better at bonsai than others. But it all boils down to the fact that we are all doing what we love to do mostly because we simply love to do it.

I especially liked Fred's comments: "With all of its bickering and personal comments, this thread has been pretty useful to me in helping me to
define and express my own, personal Bonsai Philosophy. I am coming to believe that, for me, "craftsmanship" far better expresses what I love and admire in good bonsai than "artistry"." Being a fan of Craftsman furniture (We even live in a craftsman styled house and I have built most the furniture in the same style) that idea clicked.

"Bonsai Craftsmen": the idea has a nice feel to it.

Earl