how woud you explain

dick benbow

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the pot and stand design needed to enhance the look of an old or new tree on display.

there are times with an old tree that a stand with more ornate carvings seems to accent well with an older tree. there are times when a tree needs no distractions in the simplicity of it's
pot and stand.

I'm struggling with trying to put this concept into words to undrstand the difference and anyone who can help would be appreciated to explain where and when this is applicable.
 
Dick,

I know this spawned from my comment but that was based on looking at the pictures of the stands alone. Price to me is related to the skill and effort that went to the product. Whether the more ornate one will work better in your intended application or not, is not factored.

Also, since I only saw pictures, maybe one was done more professionally? Could be.

Bottom line is, if that is what you want and you are happy with it, that is great! No ones comment (mine) should change that. If I made you feel bad, I apologize.
 
It sounds to me like the idea you're trying to convey is that of of pairing like with like... in, perhaps, the way that wine is paired with food. For example, strong, heavily flavored steaks pair well with a good strong red wine, whereas light fish pairs well with similarly flavored lighter white wines.

An old tree with complexity of character might pair well with a similarly complex pot and stand, whereas a younger looking or more simple tree could be overpowered / overshadowed by a pot with too much character or complexity, and might work better with something of a more simple nature.
 
I can see both of us are trying to be sensitive to each other's feelings and i do appreciate that.:)

I was watching a kathy shaner video on you-tube on display and she mentioned the fact about using detailed pots and stands but didn't go into much detail. I'd like to have someone exspound on that, hense this request.
 
the pot and stand design needed to enhance the look of an old or new tree on display.

there are times with an old tree that a stand with more ornate carvings seems to accent well with an older tree. there are times when a tree needs no distractions in the simplicity of it's
pot and stand.

I'm struggling with trying to put this concept into words to undrstand the difference and anyone who can help would be appreciated to explain where and when this is applicable.

Looking at perhaps thousands of "displayed" I honestly see it going something like this:

World renowned Show - Best of plants, most expensive display items.
Local Abortorium - Great plants as well - much less attention to display.
All Else - Personal Happiness, to please yourself not Judges.

When our Tropicals are outside they are displayed on Heavy treated lumber which I stain dark and place on pavers I cut to different sizes. They look real nice no matter what pots they are in... :cool:
 
Composition is a totally different beast all together.

You used the right key word..."compliment". They should not detract or compete rather help each other. Other words I usually see/hear are; flow, feeling/emotion, drama, masculine/feminine, etc.

This is beyond me right now...for now, just working with my stumps and even considering baking dish for bonsai pot!!! LOL
 
And... Those guidlines usually apply in a Judged competition. Also the way Bonsai and Penjing are looked upon are soooooooooooooooooo different. Then even more detail with "correct" choice of plant for accents, rocks(i call Suiseki rocks) - And what about the "proper" Flag thingies! :p

Once again unless you plan to show huge I would not worry trying to "wrap your head around it" I am pretty certain following basic guidlines with good flow and color fits for all...
 
thanks for bringing David de Groot's quote up so no one misses it.:)
 
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there are times with an old tree that a stand with more ornate carvings seems to accent well with an older tree. there are times when a tree needs no distractions in the simplicity of it's
pot and stand.

I'm struggling with trying to put this concept into words
I think you put it perfectly, but Kathy is the best Ive seen at explaining these things.

Which video did you get her thoughts from ?
 
Speaking of David DeGroot, your questions about display, stands, pots, accents, etc. are pretty much answered in his little book, "Basic Bonsai Design". It is published by ABS and I THINK there's a new edition out (or about due).
 
Speaking of David DeGroot, your questions about display, stands, pots, accents, etc. are pretty much answered in his little book, "Basic Bonsai Design". It is published by ABS and I THINK there's a new edition out (or about due).

Dick

I got this book because of your endorsement LOL.... but I haven't read it yet.
 
I really appreciate getting all of your input. Lots of good points.

The kathy shaner eries ( 4 parts) was called "artisans".
 
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