Robert’s simulation of a tree that was submitted for critique by Matthew Harhager (Matthew’s original is below).
Attention to detail helps
I don’t know exactly how Robert Steven does his simulations, but from the looks of them, I’d guess that plenty of time and effort goes into each one. Rather than settle for simple abstractions, Robert’s simulations look like the real thing (the photo above aptly illustrates this point). So much so, that if you didn’t know that they are simulations, you’d most likely accept them as photos of actual bonsai.
I can think of at least two reasons why this is so: first, Robert knows what goes into making a quality bonsai (if you know Robert’s work, you’ll know that this is an understatement). Second, there’s Robert’s attention to detail. The refined and lush beauty of the ground cover on tree above is a perfect example of this. But it doesn’t end there. The texture, coloring and shading on the deadwood is perfect, as is everything else in this excellent simulation (the foliage also shows great detail, but it’s not the same foliage that’s on the original; maybe Robert could shed some light on this).
There’s more I could say about this simulation, including how radical and daring this transformation is, but maybe it’s time to see what Robert has to say.
Robert’s critique
I am sorry to say that in spite of the fairly heavy trunk and deadwood, this bonsai still looks immature and the styling is not very well done.
Much of the styling problem has to do with the poor branch structure (ramification) and the poorly refined crown and foliage. Also the way the deadwood is carved doesn’t look natural. Finally, the pot doesn’t fit to the design of the tree. Overall, the tree lacks the beautiful mature look that makes for a good bonsai.
The only solution is a total restyling. There are at least two options: you can either make it into cascade with the long first branch or a semi-cascade, like my simulation. Either way you choose, the main issue is still the design: the ramification should be reformed, some dramatic bending and twisting might help form the foliage pads and then the foliage needs to be refined. The deadwood also need some touching up to look natural, and last, but not least, the selection of container should fit the design.
Matthew’s bonsai as submitted to Robert.
General comments
There is more than one way to design any bonsai and my critiques and recommended solutions might not always fit your taste and personal preferences, but I always try to give my opinion based on artistic and horticultural principles.
To understand my concepts better, please read my books Vision of My Soul and Mission of Transformation which are available at Stone Lantern.
Book Sale at Stone Lantern
Both of Robert’s ground breaking books (Vision of My Soul and Mission of Transformation) are discounted at Stone Lantern, as are all (but one) of our vast selection of Bonsai books and Japanese gardening books.
Sorry, but I actually prefer Robert’s design.
Forsooth! I was quite surprised to read that what I took for a picture of a darn good bonsai was, in fact a simulation! Robert has a genuine talent for that.
Yes. Robert’s simulations are amazing. I need to ask him how long he spends on them. He must do them fairly fast, as his accomplishments over a range of bonsai related activities are many.
Thanks Henry.
Thanks Steve. But I do hope this will not make me better known as simulation artist than bonsai artist..haha.. BTW, you must know that I am not doing simulation for nonsense, but I always consider the possibility that the original design can be done as the simulated idea for improvement.
Wayne. It’s pretty fast, about 10 minutes with PhotoShop.
Just for info, our company is also in 3D business. We are selling 3D lenticular software with production training and supplying the materials.
In future, I will provide my simulation which you can view them in 3D images using the red-blue (cyan) glasses…
The simulation is great, It looks real. But how does that help the critique if the foliage is differant it can’t possibly be done. How does that help?
John, When I give my suggestion, I do not expect it to be done exactly like my simulation although I have considered the whole possibility; but what is important is my message, my idea of the whole concept of how the original design can be improved.
Robert,
Wow. 10 minutes. Fast!
That’s great about the 3-D images.
Thanks,
-w
I am always amazed at Roberts’s skill. Can you tell us how it change the shape of the deadwood like you have done in the simulation. You said it wasn’t realistic and I agree but I would like more specifics as to what you think he should do. Your books are incredible. I admire your talent. I love they way you repeated the shape of the tree with the slab/ stand. Thanks for these critiques they are great information.
Thanks Barbara,
I didn’t say the deadwood was not realistic, but not natural look.
It should be carved to show more texture in irregular shape as it had been done by nature instead of obviously man-made. You can refer to many deadwood examples on nice junipers bonsai.
Once again, I do not expect one to make exectly as my simulation because it’s not a prototype, but the most important point is my idea of how the original design can be improved.
Hope this answered to your question.
Hi Mr. Steven
Our society of bonsai & penjing of Quebec we will discusting may be your visit in 2012 our 2013 at our nursery Bonsai Gros-Bec I will wrote to you when it will be setting
(excuse my english)
Happy holiday
suzanne & robert Smith
Hi Suzanne,
Thanks. You can write to my email at robertbonsai@hotmail.com
Hi Mr. Steven
I just wanted to make sure and thank you again for doing this critique and others. It is a great way to gain information and learn more about styling bonsai. I now have a direction to shot for with this tree. Now if I could only find someone to make a pot like this for me? Again thanks so much.
Matt
Thanks Matthew, I am glad you got my message. I know some people got me wrong by thinking that my simulation is kind of prototype..it’s not the case. I just want to give my suggestion of how the origin design ca be improved.
Wishing you and your family..a Merry X’mas and Happy New Year 2012 !
Mr. Steven,
I got your message, and know that your simulation is attainable, after all I am the one who owns the tree and have been working on it for 2 years now. I’m the one that the critique was done for, and as long as it helped me that’s all that should matter right. The root ball is not that big and should easily fit into a pot the size you have shown if not this upcoming spring then soon for sure. I will send you pictures as the work progresses. I hope to meet you some day. Thanks again and to you and your family also a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Matt@thebonsaiden.com
Thanks Matt, and I am happy if it works.
Hope to meet you somedays too..and wishing you and your family, a Merry X’Mas and Happy New Year…