I like Ryan’s approach in designing raw material to try to bring out the unique and best features of the individual tree rather than have the tree conform to a preconceived form. Rotating the tree around from as many sides as possible, pointing out both strong and weak points of each position helps to work towards a chosen design.
I think it would be helpful to formulate a basic but limited check list of things to avoid and include: like avoiding parallel lines of tree branches/trunk line to pot rim, considering location of rootball and the stress that may be caused during the repotting process, avoiding 2 dimensional positioning of tree, seeing the best possible trunk line movement, deadwood and tree base. Some might consider a checklist as falling back to conventionality but such a list might help to protect the tree’s individuality. Too many checklist points could have the opposite affect leading to a craft approach rather than art where increasing quantity leads to lowering quality.
I have heard Ryan also mention in tree design to first look to creating a tree’s natural iconic appearance before settling upon designing the tree as a bonsai using one of the classical forms. Trees growing in ideal conditions look very different from ones in harsh environments. But again, it should be what the tree brings to the turntable that determines tree design.
As for the design of the rocky mountain juniper in the stream, I like his front but l preferred the tree’s movement to the right. I would have Ryan’s lower defining branch move to the right, drawing it closer to the trunk line and drawing one’s eye to the interesting twist in the trunk above. Likewise l would lower the upper right branch right side drawing it closer to the long dead trunk, focusing on it. The upper right branch’s left side could be the new apex.
Any comments?