Movement and stillness. Robert Steven’s skill, energy and enthusiasm have done much to move the art of bonsai forward. Even though there’s nowhere to go.
These photos are from a facebook album that presents some samples of Robert Steven’s bonsai.
A simple tree with its gnarled time-twisted trunk, leans into the darkness.
Sentient trees in a ancient forest, a floating world.
Robert Steven is a frequent contributor to Bonsai Bark. In addition to being an acclaimed bonsai artist and teacher, Robert is bonsai author, with two very notable books under his belt (Vision of My Soul and Mission of Transformation) and a couple more in the works.
The first creation – Robert 680 – is brilliant! The others are wonderful but that windswept with the top portion flowing to the ‘protected” more upright lower portion of the composition is spectacular.
Thanks Dan, and agree. I too am struck by this tree. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen another quite like it. It combines so many of the characteristics that make bonsai interesting, while at the same time being more than the sum of its part (those characteristics) that elevates it to something beyond just bonsai to art.
Regarding the first Bonsai, Robert 680;
I find the dangling Apex extraneous and it actually spoils the tree for me. If removed, the image is worlds more appealing. The pot seems an awkward pairing with the tree and is distracting.
As currently displayed, Robert 2 680, the last Bonsai, would be my clear favorite. In all respect’s it is an exceptional work!
I can see the appeal of the first one, but it’s the last one that does it for me!
I don’t know why, it just look more ‘mighty’. Could imagine any kind of beautiful scene behind that.
Thanks Gary,
Yes, the third one offers a whole world of depth and delight.