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[IBC] Mica Pots
I have used many mica pots, but so far I found no problem with the tree.
Budi ----- Original Message ----- From: Ireneu Castillo To: Sent: Monday, January 26, 2004 7:01 AM Subject: [IBC] Mica Pots Hello All! I'm interested to buy a big pot for one tree, but ceramic pots are too expensive and then I had thought in mica pots, because they are cheaper than ceramics. It's recommendable to use this kind of pots instead ceramic? Can I damage the tree? Thank you a lot! -Ireneu- ************************************************** ************************** **** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ************************** **** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
I have used many mica pots, but so far I found no problem with the tree.
Budi ----- Original Message ----- From: Ireneu Castillo To: Sent: Monday, January 26, 2004 7:01 AM Subject: [IBC] Mica Pots Hello All! I'm interested to buy a big pot for one tree, but ceramic pots are too expensive and then I had thought in mica pots, because they are cheaper than ceramics. It's recommendable to use this kind of pots instead ceramic? Can I damage the tree? Thank you a lot! -Ireneu- ************************************************** ************************** **** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ************************** **** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Hi Mark,
----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Hill" Hi all... Here's a question to prolong this thread ..... Why are mica pots not preferred show containers? snip Is it simply because ceramic pots cost much more, therefore they must be better ? Sounds a bit snooty to me !! Mark Hill ------------------------------- I'll bite. Yes, it's snooty - for the same reason that diamonds are coveted over cubic zirconia, though from most views, the CZ looks beautiful and dazzling. The reason is twofold (at least): 1) This is an art. The art of bonsai display is one that touts quality and, in many cases, is concerned with ties to the artistry of long ago (antique chinese pots for high quality bonsai in an exhibit) or of today (great modern potters). Also, the subtle aesthetic quality that an excellent bonsai pot can convey as part of a bonsai display is prized for obvious reasons. 2) We're human. When dealing with artistry - an admittedly snooty endeavor (and define "snooty" at your peril) - the specific quality of the elements involved has an impact on the viewer (from small to enormous) AND the exhibitor. Humans generally enjoy exhibiting and viewing rare quality and great craftsmanship more than we enjoy exhibiting and viewing "plastic" make-do elements. Often, what we know about an objet d'art impacts our enjoyment. So sure, recognize that bonsai artistry has snooty elements. Every art does and for simple reasons. However, thinking that to be a negative is just silly, and deriding bonsai for its elements of snootiness does the art and enthusiasts no good. It's just part of this endeavor. Care about it or not, but criticize it makes us look silly. Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Hi Mark,
----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Hill" Hi all... Here's a question to prolong this thread ..... Why are mica pots not preferred show containers? snip Is it simply because ceramic pots cost much more, therefore they must be better ? Sounds a bit snooty to me !! Mark Hill ------------------------------- I'll bite. Yes, it's snooty - for the same reason that diamonds are coveted over cubic zirconia, though from most views, the CZ looks beautiful and dazzling. The reason is twofold (at least): 1) This is an art. The art of bonsai display is one that touts quality and, in many cases, is concerned with ties to the artistry of long ago (antique chinese pots for high quality bonsai in an exhibit) or of today (great modern potters). Also, the subtle aesthetic quality that an excellent bonsai pot can convey as part of a bonsai display is prized for obvious reasons. 2) We're human. When dealing with artistry - an admittedly snooty endeavor (and define "snooty" at your peril) - the specific quality of the elements involved has an impact on the viewer (from small to enormous) AND the exhibitor. Humans generally enjoy exhibiting and viewing rare quality and great craftsmanship more than we enjoy exhibiting and viewing "plastic" make-do elements. Often, what we know about an objet d'art impacts our enjoyment. So sure, recognize that bonsai artistry has snooty elements. Every art does and for simple reasons. However, thinking that to be a negative is just silly, and deriding bonsai for its elements of snootiness does the art and enthusiasts no good. It's just part of this endeavor. Care about it or not, but criticize it makes us look silly. Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Hi Mark,
----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Hill" Hi all... Here's a question to prolong this thread ..... Why are mica pots not preferred show containers? snip Is it simply because ceramic pots cost much more, therefore they must be better ? Sounds a bit snooty to me !! Mark Hill ------------------------------- I'll bite. Yes, it's snooty - for the same reason that diamonds are coveted over cubic zirconia, though from most views, the CZ looks beautiful and dazzling. The reason is twofold (at least): 1) This is an art. The art of bonsai display is one that touts quality and, in many cases, is concerned with ties to the artistry of long ago (antique chinese pots for high quality bonsai in an exhibit) or of today (great modern potters). Also, the subtle aesthetic quality that an excellent bonsai pot can convey as part of a bonsai display is prized for obvious reasons. 2) We're human. When dealing with artistry - an admittedly snooty endeavor (and define "snooty" at your peril) - the specific quality of the elements involved has an impact on the viewer (from small to enormous) AND the exhibitor. Humans generally enjoy exhibiting and viewing rare quality and great craftsmanship more than we enjoy exhibiting and viewing "plastic" make-do elements. Often, what we know about an objet d'art impacts our enjoyment. So sure, recognize that bonsai artistry has snooty elements. Every art does and for simple reasons. However, thinking that to be a negative is just silly, and deriding bonsai for its elements of snootiness does the art and enthusiasts no good. It's just part of this endeavor. Care about it or not, but criticize it makes us look silly. Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Ireneu & Mark - this thread has been explored ad infinitum a couple of years
ago at this site. It all boils down to the argument of artificial flowers vs. real ones. AHA! You must stop me here. Artificial flowers are NOT real flowers, but both mica pots and ceramic pots are artificial. Well, you have me there. HOWEVER - artists have been using ceramics for thousands of years. There has to be a reason. A beautiful ceramic bonsai pot can sit on a shelf all by itself and be a source of visual enjoyment all by itself. I can't say the same for mica pots. NEVERTHELESS - I agree with the mica protagonists who argue for the positive qualities found in mica. End of discussion - Mica is great for training purposes: ceramics are great for great bonsai. Marty P.S. This is not an expression of snobbery. M. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Ireneu Castillo" To: Sent: Monday, January 26, 2004 9:21 AM Subject: [IBC] Mica Pots Thank you, Andy I'm from Barcelona (Catalonia-Spain), and here we have a lot of heat and sun in summer. I had heard that some people had problems with mica pots because they absorb more heat than ceramic due to his black colour. It's really this? -Ireneu- Andy Rutledge wrote: Of course you can damage the tree - but not by use of mica pots. Mica pots are great pots for training and they don't look half bad, either. Go for it, save a buck and get a good pot. Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas ************************************************** ************************** **** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ************************** **** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Ireneu & Mark - this thread has been explored ad infinitum a couple of years
ago at this site. It all boils down to the argument of artificial flowers vs. real ones. AHA! You must stop me here. Artificial flowers are NOT real flowers, but both mica pots and ceramic pots are artificial. Well, you have me there. HOWEVER - artists have been using ceramics for thousands of years. There has to be a reason. A beautiful ceramic bonsai pot can sit on a shelf all by itself and be a source of visual enjoyment all by itself. I can't say the same for mica pots. NEVERTHELESS - I agree with the mica protagonists who argue for the positive qualities found in mica. End of discussion - Mica is great for training purposes: ceramics are great for great bonsai. Marty P.S. This is not an expression of snobbery. M. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Ireneu Castillo" To: Sent: Monday, January 26, 2004 9:21 AM Subject: [IBC] Mica Pots Thank you, Andy I'm from Barcelona (Catalonia-Spain), and here we have a lot of heat and sun in summer. I had heard that some people had problems with mica pots because they absorb more heat than ceramic due to his black colour. It's really this? -Ireneu- Andy Rutledge wrote: Of course you can damage the tree - but not by use of mica pots. Mica pots are great pots for training and they don't look half bad, either. Go for it, save a buck and get a good pot. Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas ************************************************** ************************** **** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ************************** **** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Ireneu & Mark - this thread has been explored ad infinitum a couple of years
ago at this site. It all boils down to the argument of artificial flowers vs. real ones. AHA! You must stop me here. Artificial flowers are NOT real flowers, but both mica pots and ceramic pots are artificial. Well, you have me there. HOWEVER - artists have been using ceramics for thousands of years. There has to be a reason. A beautiful ceramic bonsai pot can sit on a shelf all by itself and be a source of visual enjoyment all by itself. I can't say the same for mica pots. NEVERTHELESS - I agree with the mica protagonists who argue for the positive qualities found in mica. End of discussion - Mica is great for training purposes: ceramics are great for great bonsai. Marty P.S. This is not an expression of snobbery. M. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Ireneu Castillo" To: Sent: Monday, January 26, 2004 9:21 AM Subject: [IBC] Mica Pots Thank you, Andy I'm from Barcelona (Catalonia-Spain), and here we have a lot of heat and sun in summer. I had heard that some people had problems with mica pots because they absorb more heat than ceramic due to his black colour. It's really this? -Ireneu- Andy Rutledge wrote: Of course you can damage the tree - but not by use of mica pots. Mica pots are great pots for training and they don't look half bad, either. Go for it, save a buck and get a good pot. Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas ************************************************** ************************** **** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ************************** **** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Andy Rutledge wrote:
Hi Mark, ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Hill" Hi all... Here's a question to prolong this thread ..... Why are mica pots not preferred show containers? snip Is it simply because ceramic pots cost much more, therefore they must be better ? Sounds a bit snooty to me !! Mark Hill ------------------------------- I'll bite. Yes, it's snooty - for the same reason that diamonds are coveted over cubic zirconia, though from most views, the CZ looks beautiful and dazzling. The reason is twofold (at least): 1) This is an art. The art of bonsai display is one that touts quality and, in many cases, is concerned with ties to the artistry of long ago (antique chinese pots for high quality bonsai in an exhibit) or of today (great modern potters). Also, the subtle aesthetic quality that an excellent bonsai pot can convey as part of a bonsai display is prized for obvious reasons. This is scary. Andy and I actually *somewhat* agree. I like mica pots for the reasons already mentioned. I use them here at home, and at this point I feel that they are appropriate for trees in training, really large trees in general that are going to be overly heavy in a ceramic pot, and for local and club exhibitions. I don't know exactly where I'd draw the line in terms of acceptability, though. Major exhibits, perhaps, although I saw several trees in mica pots at the exposition last October at the North Carolina State Arboretum and they looked really good--they obviously had been oiled. 2) We're human. When dealing with artistry - an admittedly snooty endeavor (and define "snooty" at your peril) - the specific quality of the elements involved has an impact on the viewer (from small to enormous) AND the exhibitor. Humans generally enjoy exhibiting and viewing rare quality and great craftsmanship more than we enjoy exhibiting and viewing "plastic" make-do elements. Often, what we know about an objet d'art impacts our enjoyment. So sure, recognize that bonsai artistry has snooty elements. "Snooty" really isn't the best term here. "Particular," perhaps. When I have a large tree that I feel is worth showing, I will probably look around for a ceramic pot. I realize that my bigger trees are going to take a number of years to really be presentable. When they are presentable, I want to have them look their best. To wait on the larger ceramic pots a few years also helps me to be patient with a larger tree, and not rush it in it's training. I have been doing bonsai long enough (5 years) so that I'm beginning to get a sense of the longer-term aspect of the art--not rushing a tree, but working on it steadily and watching it progress through several seasons. And in terms of display, Andy's right. Whether the pot is glazed or unglazed, a ceramic pot, especially a well-made one, is generally better looking than a mica pot. snip Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas Craig Cowing NY Zone 5b/6a Sunset 37 ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Andy Rutledge wrote:
Hi Mark, ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Hill" Hi all... Here's a question to prolong this thread ..... Why are mica pots not preferred show containers? snip Is it simply because ceramic pots cost much more, therefore they must be better ? Sounds a bit snooty to me !! Mark Hill ------------------------------- I'll bite. Yes, it's snooty - for the same reason that diamonds are coveted over cubic zirconia, though from most views, the CZ looks beautiful and dazzling. The reason is twofold (at least): 1) This is an art. The art of bonsai display is one that touts quality and, in many cases, is concerned with ties to the artistry of long ago (antique chinese pots for high quality bonsai in an exhibit) or of today (great modern potters). Also, the subtle aesthetic quality that an excellent bonsai pot can convey as part of a bonsai display is prized for obvious reasons. This is scary. Andy and I actually *somewhat* agree. I like mica pots for the reasons already mentioned. I use them here at home, and at this point I feel that they are appropriate for trees in training, really large trees in general that are going to be overly heavy in a ceramic pot, and for local and club exhibitions. I don't know exactly where I'd draw the line in terms of acceptability, though. Major exhibits, perhaps, although I saw several trees in mica pots at the exposition last October at the North Carolina State Arboretum and they looked really good--they obviously had been oiled. 2) We're human. When dealing with artistry - an admittedly snooty endeavor (and define "snooty" at your peril) - the specific quality of the elements involved has an impact on the viewer (from small to enormous) AND the exhibitor. Humans generally enjoy exhibiting and viewing rare quality and great craftsmanship more than we enjoy exhibiting and viewing "plastic" make-do elements. Often, what we know about an objet d'art impacts our enjoyment. So sure, recognize that bonsai artistry has snooty elements. "Snooty" really isn't the best term here. "Particular," perhaps. When I have a large tree that I feel is worth showing, I will probably look around for a ceramic pot. I realize that my bigger trees are going to take a number of years to really be presentable. When they are presentable, I want to have them look their best. To wait on the larger ceramic pots a few years also helps me to be patient with a larger tree, and not rush it in it's training. I have been doing bonsai long enough (5 years) so that I'm beginning to get a sense of the longer-term aspect of the art--not rushing a tree, but working on it steadily and watching it progress through several seasons. And in terms of display, Andy's right. Whether the pot is glazed or unglazed, a ceramic pot, especially a well-made one, is generally better looking than a mica pot. snip Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas Craig Cowing NY Zone 5b/6a Sunset 37 ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Andy Rutledge wrote:
Hi Mark, ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Hill" Hi all... Here's a question to prolong this thread ..... Why are mica pots not preferred show containers? snip Is it simply because ceramic pots cost much more, therefore they must be better ? Sounds a bit snooty to me !! Mark Hill ------------------------------- I'll bite. Yes, it's snooty - for the same reason that diamonds are coveted over cubic zirconia, though from most views, the CZ looks beautiful and dazzling. The reason is twofold (at least): 1) This is an art. The art of bonsai display is one that touts quality and, in many cases, is concerned with ties to the artistry of long ago (antique chinese pots for high quality bonsai in an exhibit) or of today (great modern potters). Also, the subtle aesthetic quality that an excellent bonsai pot can convey as part of a bonsai display is prized for obvious reasons. This is scary. Andy and I actually *somewhat* agree. I like mica pots for the reasons already mentioned. I use them here at home, and at this point I feel that they are appropriate for trees in training, really large trees in general that are going to be overly heavy in a ceramic pot, and for local and club exhibitions. I don't know exactly where I'd draw the line in terms of acceptability, though. Major exhibits, perhaps, although I saw several trees in mica pots at the exposition last October at the North Carolina State Arboretum and they looked really good--they obviously had been oiled. 2) We're human. When dealing with artistry - an admittedly snooty endeavor (and define "snooty" at your peril) - the specific quality of the elements involved has an impact on the viewer (from small to enormous) AND the exhibitor. Humans generally enjoy exhibiting and viewing rare quality and great craftsmanship more than we enjoy exhibiting and viewing "plastic" make-do elements. Often, what we know about an objet d'art impacts our enjoyment. So sure, recognize that bonsai artistry has snooty elements. "Snooty" really isn't the best term here. "Particular," perhaps. When I have a large tree that I feel is worth showing, I will probably look around for a ceramic pot. I realize that my bigger trees are going to take a number of years to really be presentable. When they are presentable, I want to have them look their best. To wait on the larger ceramic pots a few years also helps me to be patient with a larger tree, and not rush it in it's training. I have been doing bonsai long enough (5 years) so that I'm beginning to get a sense of the longer-term aspect of the art--not rushing a tree, but working on it steadily and watching it progress through several seasons. And in terms of display, Andy's right. Whether the pot is glazed or unglazed, a ceramic pot, especially a well-made one, is generally better looking than a mica pot. snip Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas Craig Cowing NY Zone 5b/6a Sunset 37 ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
Andy Rutledge wrote:
Hi Mark, ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Hill" Hi all... Here's a question to prolong this thread ..... Why are mica pots not preferred show containers? snip Is it simply because ceramic pots cost much more, therefore they must be better ? Sounds a bit snooty to me !! Mark Hill ------------------------------- I'll bite. Yes, it's snooty - for the same reason that diamonds are coveted over cubic zirconia, though from most views, the CZ looks beautiful and dazzling. The reason is twofold (at least): 1) This is an art. The art of bonsai display is one that touts quality and, in many cases, is concerned with ties to the artistry of long ago (antique chinese pots for high quality bonsai in an exhibit) or of today (great modern potters). Also, the subtle aesthetic quality that an excellent bonsai pot can convey as part of a bonsai display is prized for obvious reasons. This is scary. Andy and I actually *somewhat* agree. I like mica pots for the reasons already mentioned. I use them here at home, and at this point I feel that they are appropriate for trees in training, really large trees in general that are going to be overly heavy in a ceramic pot, and for local and club exhibitions. I don't know exactly where I'd draw the line in terms of acceptability, though. Major exhibits, perhaps, although I saw several trees in mica pots at the exposition last October at the North Carolina State Arboretum and they looked really good--they obviously had been oiled. 2) We're human. When dealing with artistry - an admittedly snooty endeavor (and define "snooty" at your peril) - the specific quality of the elements involved has an impact on the viewer (from small to enormous) AND the exhibitor. Humans generally enjoy exhibiting and viewing rare quality and great craftsmanship more than we enjoy exhibiting and viewing "plastic" make-do elements. Often, what we know about an objet d'art impacts our enjoyment. So sure, recognize that bonsai artistry has snooty elements. "Snooty" really isn't the best term here. "Particular," perhaps. When I have a large tree that I feel is worth showing, I will probably look around for a ceramic pot. I realize that my bigger trees are going to take a number of years to really be presentable. When they are presentable, I want to have them look their best. To wait on the larger ceramic pots a few years also helps me to be patient with a larger tree, and not rush it in it's training. I have been doing bonsai long enough (5 years) so that I'm beginning to get a sense of the longer-term aspect of the art--not rushing a tree, but working on it steadily and watching it progress through several seasons. And in terms of display, Andy's right. Whether the pot is glazed or unglazed, a ceramic pot, especially a well-made one, is generally better looking than a mica pot. snip Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas Craig Cowing NY Zone 5b/6a Sunset 37 ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
When you go to the pub you wear jeans and a sweatshirt and to a gala
event you wear a suit and tie. It's that simple,'nough said. My 2 cents Richard Marcus -----Original Message----- From: Internet Bonsai Club ] On Behalf Of Craig Cowing Sent: Monday, January 26, 2004 11:25 AM To: Subject: [IBC] Mica Pots Andy Rutledge wrote: Hi Mark, ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Hill" Hi all... Here's a question to prolong this thread ..... Why are mica pots not preferred show containers? snip Is it simply because ceramic pots cost much more, therefore they must be better ? Sounds a bit snooty to me !! Mark Hill ------------------------------- I'll bite. Yes, it's snooty - for the same reason that diamonds are coveted over cubic zirconia, though from most views, the CZ looks beautiful and dazzling. The reason is twofold (at least): 1) This is an art. The art of bonsai display is one that touts quality and, in many cases, is concerned with ties to the artistry of long ago (antique chinese pots for high quality bonsai in an exhibit) or of today (great modern potters). Also, the subtle aesthetic quality that an excellent bonsai pot can convey as part of a bonsai display is prized for obvious reasons. This is scary. Andy and I actually *somewhat* agree. I like mica pots for the reasons already mentioned. I use them here at home, and at this point I feel that they are appropriate for trees in training, really large trees in general that are going to be overly heavy in a ceramic pot, and for local and club exhibitions. I don't know exactly where I'd draw the line in terms of acceptability, though. Major exhibits, perhaps, although I saw several trees in mica pots at the exposition last October at the North Carolina State Arboretum and they looked really good--they obviously had been oiled. 2) We're human. When dealing with artistry - an admittedly snooty endeavor (and define "snooty" at your peril) - the specific quality of the elements involved has an impact on the viewer (from small to enormous) AND the exhibitor. Humans generally enjoy exhibiting and viewing rare quality and great craftsmanship more than we enjoy exhibiting and viewing "plastic" make-do elements. Often, what we know about an objet d'art impacts our enjoyment. So sure, recognize that bonsai artistry has snooty elements. "Snooty" really isn't the best term here. "Particular," perhaps. When I have a large tree that I feel is worth showing, I will probably look around for a ceramic pot. I realize that my bigger trees are going to take a number of years to really be presentable. When they are presentable, I want to have them look their best. To wait on the larger ceramic pots a few years also helps me to be patient with a larger tree, and not rush it in it's training. I have been doing bonsai long enough (5 years) so that I'm beginning to get a sense of the longer-term aspect of the art--not rushing a tree, but working on it steadily and watching it progress through several seasons. And in terms of display, Andy's right. Whether the pot is glazed or unglazed, a ceramic pot, especially a well-made one, is generally better looking than a mica pot. snip Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas Craig Cowing NY Zone 5b/6a Sunset 37 ************************************************** ********************** ******** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ********************** ******** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
[IBC] Mica Pots
When you go to the pub you wear jeans and a sweatshirt and to a gala
event you wear a suit and tie. It's that simple,'nough said. My 2 cents Richard Marcus -----Original Message----- From: Internet Bonsai Club ] On Behalf Of Craig Cowing Sent: Monday, January 26, 2004 11:25 AM To: Subject: [IBC] Mica Pots Andy Rutledge wrote: Hi Mark, ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Hill" Hi all... Here's a question to prolong this thread ..... Why are mica pots not preferred show containers? snip Is it simply because ceramic pots cost much more, therefore they must be better ? Sounds a bit snooty to me !! Mark Hill ------------------------------- I'll bite. Yes, it's snooty - for the same reason that diamonds are coveted over cubic zirconia, though from most views, the CZ looks beautiful and dazzling. The reason is twofold (at least): 1) This is an art. The art of bonsai display is one that touts quality and, in many cases, is concerned with ties to the artistry of long ago (antique chinese pots for high quality bonsai in an exhibit) or of today (great modern potters). Also, the subtle aesthetic quality that an excellent bonsai pot can convey as part of a bonsai display is prized for obvious reasons. This is scary. Andy and I actually *somewhat* agree. I like mica pots for the reasons already mentioned. I use them here at home, and at this point I feel that they are appropriate for trees in training, really large trees in general that are going to be overly heavy in a ceramic pot, and for local and club exhibitions. I don't know exactly where I'd draw the line in terms of acceptability, though. Major exhibits, perhaps, although I saw several trees in mica pots at the exposition last October at the North Carolina State Arboretum and they looked really good--they obviously had been oiled. 2) We're human. When dealing with artistry - an admittedly snooty endeavor (and define "snooty" at your peril) - the specific quality of the elements involved has an impact on the viewer (from small to enormous) AND the exhibitor. Humans generally enjoy exhibiting and viewing rare quality and great craftsmanship more than we enjoy exhibiting and viewing "plastic" make-do elements. Often, what we know about an objet d'art impacts our enjoyment. So sure, recognize that bonsai artistry has snooty elements. "Snooty" really isn't the best term here. "Particular," perhaps. When I have a large tree that I feel is worth showing, I will probably look around for a ceramic pot. I realize that my bigger trees are going to take a number of years to really be presentable. When they are presentable, I want to have them look their best. To wait on the larger ceramic pots a few years also helps me to be patient with a larger tree, and not rush it in it's training. I have been doing bonsai long enough (5 years) so that I'm beginning to get a sense of the longer-term aspect of the art--not rushing a tree, but working on it steadily and watching it progress through several seasons. And in terms of display, Andy's right. Whether the pot is glazed or unglazed, a ceramic pot, especially a well-made one, is generally better looking than a mica pot. snip Kind regards, Andy Rutledge www.andyrutledge.com/palaver/main.htm zone 8, Texas Craig Cowing NY Zone 5b/6a Sunset 37 ************************************************** ********************** ******** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ********************** ******** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ ************************************************** ****************************** ++++Sponsored, in part, by Marc Zimmerman++++ ************************************************** ****************************** -- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ -- +++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++ |
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