Thanks Brian for the excellent review. I can only add my general feelings.
Educational bonsai videos with big names and great content are by now established as a very important part of learning to understand and practice the art of bonsai. Videos with Mr. Masahiko Kimura, however, are something special in this field. Bonsai Empire was successful in producing a very nice Kimura package. The overall quality of the videos is at the highest level. This is better than a live demonstration as all boring and unnecessary parts have been cut out.
Two long case studies are featured. One collected and yet unstyled Japanese White Pine gets fully styled by the master himself and one rock planting with Shimpaku is created. While often Japanese masters tend to not explain much and expect you to learn from just watching, Mr. Kimura does a lot of explanations and makes sure to answer all questions and also some which are not even asked. He is asked in Japanese and answers in Japanese. The English subtitles are very good and clear - better than a verbal translation.
As expected Mr. Kimura says a lot about techniques, mainly wiring, of course. While he has a few assistants ready to help he does most things himself. It is amazing how he works without much ado, just does the proper job, and a great piece of art evolves. At one point he speaks about the wonder to see a great piano player just move his fingers and create the greatest kind of music. Yes, this is a good picture to explain what is happening in these videos. It all seems so obvious and easy, while it is not, of course.
Discipline and endless practice is the key to becoming very good at this art - this is stressed several times. And one can tell, only with discipline and practice the execution of an art form can look as easy.
Whoever is serious about bonsai should take a look at this. I can only encourage folks to give it a go. It is all worth the price. At this moment the early registrants will get a ten percent discount. Hurry up!
https://www.bonsaiempire.com/courses/kimura-masterclass
www.bonsaiempire.com
Be sure to check it out when it drops; this Masterclass is really something special.
?
