The Ask The Master Forum will be CHANGING FORMAT

Cre8tive

I am sorry to hear you will be leaving. I have learned many things from hearing your matter-of-fact critiques of the trees posted.

I think this is unfortunately another prime example of how sensitive our society has become when accurate criticisms are perceived as "rude" or "harsh".

We all lose a great asset in your departure as you climb to higher moral ground to avoid the "tsunami of ignorance" but wish you all the best in your journey.

Regards,
Mark

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wouterotten

After reading Walter’s post I feel a strange mixture of replacing shame, sadness and gratitude.
I completely understand his decision. And I'm angry at those who didn't have the decency to follow posting-rules or the simple but essential ways of respectful behaviour towards a teacher.

Even though I am not at all guilty of the above, I take all of this nevertheless personal because of the following : I learned such a lot! I'm just a humble beginner but reading Walter’s comments in this forum teached me more on the essentials of bonsai than any book ever could. If one day I will be able to create quality bonsai I will owe it to him for a great part. And it is not my habit to speak for others, but I dare to say we ALL owe him a lot. I believe bonsai itself has changed since he got involved …

Therefor I'm sad the 'Ask the Master'-forum will end to exist, allthough I understand. An opportunity to learn will disappear.

Dear Walter, from the bottom of my heart: THANK YOU - THANK YOU - THANK YOU for everything you have given us so far !!!

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Bone-sigh

Walter, thankyou.
Though you and I have not always agreed on the "how to" of things I greatly respect you as a teacher and artist. It is a shame to see you go. Good luck to you and your travels.
Best wishes,
Ryan

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----a Quote from my uncle's fridge

Will_Heath

The forum has taken a step back-wards today. This is a sad development indeed, where do we go for professional, experience advice and critique now?

This forum should be for both beginners and advanced artists alike, I feel the scales are tipped toward the beginners. As a beginner I would want advice, suggestions, and critiques from the advanced. As an advanced artist, I would want the same from advanced members.

Walter was most likely one of the most professional and experienced artists here who gave us the PRICELESS service of critiquing our show ready bonsai. This was abused over time in many ways. People posting trees that were not show ready, people posting comments before Walter, people debating his advice and thereby questioning his experience and knowledge. People scoffed at quality advice from him and yes, people called him arrogant, egotistical, and harsh.

I can't say I blame Walter for this decision. I can say that we loss a very important service today, one that I'll miss greatly.

Walter,

Know that your services were appreciated and that some have learned from your efforts. I hope that knowledge helps because your knowledge has certainly helped me beyond words.

*Visualize me giving you the deepest bow*


Thank you, Sensei,


Will Heath

EarthgirlOK

YOU DON'T APPRECIATE THINGS UNTIL THEY'RE GONE...

I'm afraid this tragic phrase applies to me as well...I wish now I had been paying more attention to this forum. I am so FAR AWAY from asking the master about anything, that I really don't check this one as often as I should...now, sadly, it sounds like it's too late...

So sorry to hear that we are losing this priceless service because of our collective carelessness...

Walter, I do hope that you will still chime in there from time to time on the TOD or other posts you find worthy...

Michelle

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Sonlight NurseryGreen Country Bonsai Society

grampz

Mr. Walter,

Thank you for the many lessons you have taught in this forum and other forums of this site...It makes me truly sad to learn that this forum will no longer be used as a method of learning from one of today's foremost bonsai masters...I trust I am understanding your announcement to mean you will no longer be posting to the 'Ask the Master' portion of BonsaiTalk, but will continue to share your knowledge and wisdom with us in other forums on the site as your time permits...I too think it is a shame that some people are so inconsiderate as to post trees in this forum that are clearly not show ready or properly photographed...This forum is, and has been a most valuable asset to BonsaiTalk...

Again thanks for your contribution...

Regards
Behr

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As the Master departed the workshop,
he could have sworn he heard some
one saying rather loudly...
"I thought he would never leave"
San Antonio Bonsai Society, Inc.

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Arnie

Walter.

I've always found your "caustic" attitude and direct approach highly amusing if nothing else. You are truely a genius with added comic value.

Its a shame to see you go. My lunch hour will never be the same.

Lesley

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Ladybug

tuckerg

Gutted .Walter,for helping me in the past,thank you.for those who messed it up,no comment!!