By Randy Clark Charlotte, NC
It is almost impossible to formulate a list of rules for the construction of a bonsai. In art, rules are meant to be broken and sometimes bonsai which break all the rules are the most dramatic. Perhaps the word “concepts” or “guidelines” would be more appropriate. Most bonsai have a triangular shape, three primary branches, a viewing front and several of the elements discussed previously such as good root displacement, trunk taper and the like. What follows is a “formula” for creating a classically designed bonsai.
There are about 12 classical bonsai styles types into which plant material can be shaped. (See bonsai syle). Described below is the classic design parameters for a formal upright bonsai. It is the base style from which all other bonsai shapes are derived. Regardless of what style you are making or what kind of plant material you are working with... it will ideally contain the elements described below.
Formal Upright Bonsai: Definition - A tree who’s trunk is perfectly straight and who’s apex (top) is in a direct line above its base.Finding The Front
The first task required by the artist is to determine the preferred viewing angle of the tree and its approximate overall height. These determinations are subjective in nature and would be based on factors that the artist feels are most important such as: trunk shape and movement, surface root placement, trunk taper, branch placement, etc. A bonsai needs to look attractive and balanced from all angles, but usually there is one side of the tree that the artist intends for viewers when displayed at an exhibition. This position is known as the front and all bonsai must have one.
Finding The Triangle
All bonsai have a triangular shape. Sometimes that triangle looks more like a semicircle, but the point is mute. Branches on you tree must be longer at the bottom and become gradually smaller as you approach the top of the tree. (Illustration 1) To do it any other way will create something which looks unnatural. Look at the old trees in the environment around you. They all follow this pattern. The triangle is a theme that runs through all bonsai designs. Since a good bonsai artist strives for asymmetry in their creations it is seldom an equilateral triangle. Nevertheless, a triangle is always present. A single tree presents a single triangle. A twin trunk tree presents two triangles which are arranged to create one overall triangle. Cascade bonsai present triangles which are turned upside down. Forest and group plantings are composed of a series of triangular groupings... usually a minimum of three... which are then arranged to complete an overall larger triangle for the entire composition. (Illustration 2). Newcomer to the art would be well advised to master the triangulation of a single tree before attempting for complicated compositions such as cascades and forests.
This charming Fukien Tea has all of the elements which might be asked for in a good bonsai. Interesting trunk movement, excellent rootage, correct branch placement and a well formed asymmetrical triangular silhouette are all complimented by the choice of an understated container with soft flowing curves which accent the soft flowing lines of the tree. It proves that bonsai need not be expensive to be prize winners.
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