That's cause we're passionate.

I find it amusing that I logged on last night and this was the first thread I came across. I had just finished having a similar and equally contentious conversation following a major (non-Bonsai) design presentation that afternoon. Having asked for a serious critique of my work and method from several friends in the audience I only recieved shallow pat-on-the-back reassurance. I know my work was good, what I wanted to know was where it fell short of better. Without honest feedback it becomes quite difficult to improve past a certain level.

I try to follow a simple rule when I choose to post responses in a forum such as this. If I wouldn't be willing to say it in person to the artists face, I won't say it here.

It is also usually apparent in the initial post, just what level of critique is appropriate. We all would do to go easy on someone who posts their "first tree," but would be doing a great disservice to not make some suggestions or lessons for individual improvement. I personally would be put off and feel unwelcome were I not taken seriously enough for a real response but rather brushed off with insincere filler. Even as a beginner, I would imagine that most would be less bothered by some constructive comments now, than spending a year or two developing the beginnings of a collection only to discover its all poor quality and its too late for easy improvements. Waste a day on a tree or a year on a hobby, which would you be more bothered by?

I want people to know that if I say I like or am inspired by their creations, I mean it.

D.S.

Zuishi: It is good to hear from someone who can articulate there thoughts. It is also good to know that you are serious about your trees. Have you started a gallery yet, it is at the Bonsai talk museam. I would love to see photos of your favorite trees if you have the ability to post them.

sincerely

Ripsgreentree,

I have the ability to post photos, but alas have no trees to photograph. I apoligize if I gave the impression of being anything but a bonsai neophyte. My related knowledge lies mainly in the areas of asian and western artistic sensibilities (I spent several years as an asian art and antiquities importer, and am trained as an interior designer.) I have read as many books as I could on the subject of bonsai, visited several shows and exhibitions, harrassed local club members, visited specialist nurseries, and been a daily lurker at three internet forums, all in preperation for the eventual aquisition of my first trees about nine months from now.

My current apartment situation is not very conducive to plant prosperity, and my two and a half year old is only just outgrowing his fascination with watering and repotting my plants while my back is turned. I look forward to that moment I can be more active in persuit of training, but find I am enjoying the exploritory phase (almost two years long now) a great deal as well.

You will probably only find me posting in response to artistic or basic horticultural queries due to my lack of hands on experience with actual bonsai.

Thank you for your interest.
D.S.