Andy,
Bonsai bigotry? I agree with all you said on the subject. I see no problem with buying a pre-made bonsai, or a part finished one and finishing it off.
Showing a tree you've only owned for 1 week? Ambivalent towards that. I can see your point, but how do you appease the artist who has invested 20 years of time in a tree who sees a collector beat her/him to the honours? Tell them to get over it I suspect you'll say, and I suppose that is the only real answer.
Call myself an artist? nah, not really for me. I probably am one, you can call me one if you like, but I have no urge to proclaim to the world that I am one. I understand this subject is dear to you, but it just ain't to me. I am one of those people who cannot see himself in the same fraternity as the people you mention. My son has pulled dead leaves off my Chinese Elm. Technically he is now an artist
as with everything there are degrees..
Regards,
Chris.