Point Lobos: A Coastal Cypress Bonsai Transformation

[Scriv]

In bonsai, we’re often guided by tradition. If you follow the formula and bring the branches down close to the trunk, you’ll maximize the aesthetics of your trees.

But nature creates forms that defy the bonsai convention yet remain effective and striking when utilized in miniature.

This small Bob Simon collected Pygmy Cypress is a representation of the Monterey Cypress we see overhanging the craggy cliffs along the Pacific Coast at Point Lobos.

The wind relentlessly blasts the shoreline sculpting top heavy trees that carry branches up and out instead of down and in — a reminder that beauty isn’t always found in restraint, but sometimes in the freedom to reach for something different.

Please go check out the full length, step-by-step video at the link below if you have 7 minutes to spare.

Thanks,

Kyle

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfV0wbDOUv8

 

[n8]

Nice work, Kyle.

 

[Scriv]

Nice work, Kyle.

Thank you, very much appreciate you checking it out

 

[shimbrypaku]

Agree,

You did a nice job on the tree.

 

[Scriv]

Thank you

 

[The Barber]

You know it is good when you look at a photo and honestly can't tell what size the tree is. I like the scale of this one, and the natural look of it. They don't all have to break our backs to be nice trees. Well done.

 

[Scriv]

You know it is good when you look at a photo and honestly can't tell what size the tree is. I like the scale of this one, and the natural look of it. They don't all have to break our backs to be nice trees. Well done.

Thanks man, appreciate it. I really focused on micro movement and creating acute angles in the branch structure (similar to Monterey Cypress) to make it feel bigger than it is. Nothing makes a tree feel young and small like an arching linear bend. Tree is about 15-20 inches or so from the base.

 

[vp999]

Great work man ....I fell in love with the Carmel area in the last couple years and this definitely brought me back....Thank you!

This is another one of my favorite too so get to it

 

[Scriv]

Great work man ....I fell in love with the Carmel area in the last couple years and this definitely brought me back....Thank you!

This is another one of my favorite too so get to it

View attachment 585471

Thank you!

Ahh, the old veteran! Wish I could get my hands on an old cypress like this.