bonsaiTALK Community - View Single Post - What is a tree critique all about?

My personal opinion is that a critique should be made in such a way that, if followed, results in a better tree. I don't think statements that are simply critical with no recommended course of action do anyone any good. If you are judging, fine...deduct "points" for flaws. If you are critiquing - tell me how to improve it. Don't just tell me it is not good. That being said, I think Walter's first post on the Bougy was excellent. He gave his perspective on how to improve - should the owner decide to go traditional OR natural. Everyone knows his preference, but he still took into account the different perspectives and gave his advice accordingly. However, further down in the thread it kindof devolved from critique to a "if you do it that way you will totally ruin it" stance. I am learning, quite quickly, that Bonsai folks tend to be a pretty prickly group. A lot of stuff tends to be taken very personally and in the worst possible way. Oh well, at least it's entertaining - if not always beneficial!

12-Oct-2004	#5
IsomJ1 bonsaiTALK Craftsman Join Date: Sep-2003 Location: Cleveland, OH Country: USA USDA Zone: 6 AHS Heat Zone: 4 Posts: 90	Criticism vs. Judging My personal opinion is that a critique should be made in such a way that, if followed, results in a better tree. I don't think statements that are simply critical with no recommended course of action do anyone any good. If you are judging, fine...deduct "points" for flaws. If you are critiquing - tell me how to improve it. Don't just tell me it is not good. That being said, I think Walter's first post on the Bougy was excellent. He gave his perspective on how to improve - should the owner decide to go traditional OR natural. Everyone knows his preference, but he still took into account the different perspectives and gave his advice accordingly. However, further down in the thread it kindof devolved from critique to a "if you do it that way you will totally ruin it" stance. I am learning, quite quickly, that Bonsai folks tend to be a pretty prickly group. A lot of stuff tends to be taken very personally and in the worst possible way. Oh well, at least it's entertaining - if not always beneficial! __________________ Jeff Isom Cleveland, OH / Sunset Zone 39