Penjing Vs Bonsai

Robert Steven’s simulation of a Japanese black pine that was submitted by Mike Liu (Mike’s original is below). Still out of town and still digging deep into our archives. This one is from almost three years ago (December 2010). It’s original title is: Robert Steven Critiques a Black Pine and Offers Some Insights into the Five Schools of Penjing. It’s one of many brilliant Robert Steven critiques, though, aside from starting with such a well developed tree, what sets it apart is Robert’s discussion of the five schools of Chinese Penjing. As you may know, Robert is a world famous … Continue reading Penjing Vs Bonsai

Mister Windswept Bonsai

Robert Steven’s simulation of the tree pictured below. If you search windswept bonsai, you’ll most likely notice that almost all of the best windswept trees belong to Robert Steven. You could even say that Robert Steven is Mr. Windswept Bonsai. Both as an artist and as an authority on the subject. But then, you could say that about other types of bonsai as well (check out some previous critiques by Robert if you want some evidence). So, given this fact, here’s Mr. Windswept Bonsai himself with another of his illuminating critiques. This one is of unspecified variety of tree that … Continue reading Mister Windswept Bonsai

Critiques: A Simple Request (In His Own Words)

This photo will give you some idea of what Robert Steven is up to. Well, this and critiquing your trees. Your photos and Robert’s request (in his own words) “…one more thing, you’d better suggest people to send the picture taken with plain background with the proper front angle, plus back and sides if they wish.” None of the photos so far… … have completely conformed to what he wants. This isn’t to say he won’t accept them (he might), just that it will make it easier on him if the photos are closer to what he is looking for. … Continue reading Critiques: A Simple Request (In His Own Words)