bonsaikc

I think the question is less whether "schools are unnecessary" or whether we need the construction of "American schools of bonsai." Of course there have been some notable advances in the course of working with North American species, Vaughn Banting's work with bald cypress being an outstanding one. Many of you can name more of these. But the thing that most American bonsai seem to share is a lack of refinement and sense of artistry. Now I am no great artisan by any means, just a student. And please make note of the word "most."

I quit showing my trees several years ago. Why? Because I was exposed to quality trees. I realized I was settling for far too little by exhibiting trees that were unfinished and unartistic. I decided to remove myself from the misapprehension that I was doing my own thing, that my trees were good enough, that I was just a hobbyist, and that everyone has their own opinion and that's okay.

Americans have a distinct personality. We tend to be rugged individualists, deciding we need to reinvent the wheel at every opportunity. Most of us never realize that we can't really advance an art or science until we master what is known of it already. We all think we are the genius who can leap past what masters have done. But face it, none of us is an Amadeus or Michelangelo. Can we really call ourselves "the Picasso of Bonsai?" Personally I am striving to become a competent journeyman, with hopes of moving forward as time goes by. By building a solid foundation, I will have the tools I need to achieve what I want.

Chris

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