Tom,
Thanks for an enjoyable experience. Now that the polls are closed and we did all this for you (you needed inspiration/assistance) so what is your choice, and why?
Very gratifying that you enjoyed it Rick. I always find inspiration where I can, even here on the forums
Irene mentioned that in a conversation that I was hesitant about commenting. This was primarily due to the fact that the contest was still running and felt it improper. I will admit that a small portion of that decision comes from not wanting to offend my customers.
However constructive critique and review is what we due to make ourselves better in the art and grow. So with that in mind here are my thoughts.
While all the entries had merit in one form or another. There was not one combination that made me go wow, that is it. Bill and his winning pot was a good traditional approach, the image was pleasing. The specific color was a bit off for me. Over all I think it was a safe approach in finding a solution to the combination problem. A safe traditional approach is not something I personally am looking for this tree. Which I think is evident by its planting angle, which in itself is a whole different story.
Dales antique pot is exquisitely gorgeous. I love it, however not for this tree. It is so ornate that I feel that it over shadows the tree. The color, shape and size were all right. The piping on the pot just took it over the top for me and actually for anyone in my extended family that reviewed the contest. I have seen Dale's azalea that is planted in it. It is most definitely the right pot for that tree a beautiful combination.
Rick your # 8 pot made by Dale was a favorite as well. Texture and hints of purple were fitting for the tree. Its draw back was that to me the pot overall was to dark and that it was to stout. I think the the pot it ends up in will need some movement such as the reticulation in Dales pot and Bills. This I believe produces harmony with the trunk movement.
I don't know if that answers your inquiry. I also hope it doesn't seem that I'm skirting any issue. I gleaned a lot of information and that for me was the sole intent. Choosing a right pot for a good tree is not one, at least for me, that you can do in a short time. It needs careful consideration weighing all the options.