2. Balance can be enhanced or destroyed by the focal point.
An example of a focal point is the circle on the line in the
illustration. The circle draws your attention, it is the place
to which your eye consistently returns.
a. The focal point should be that portion of a bonsai
composition around which the rest of the tree is styled.
The focal point should have the greatest visual impact
on the viewer. It has the ability to direct the viewer’s
attention toward that particular feature and away from
lesser features.
b. It is important that a focal point be an appealing
feature. If a focal point is an undesirable feature, the
viewer has difficulty seeing the more commendable
elements of the composition and tends to discount the
artistic value of the bonsai. An example would be a
brightly colored glazed container to which the eye
constantly returns or a section of dead wood which is
so over powering in appearance that it inhibits the
viewing of other elements of the composition.E. Unity. Unity within a bonsai composition is provided by the
repeated use of similar or related elements throughout the
composition. This repeated use of related elements provides
a rhythm, a flow or a movement which enhances the unity
of the composition.
1. One of the unifying elements in most bonsai
compositions is the triangle. It can be seen in the shape of
individual branches, in the tree’s silhouette and in the
entire composition.
2. Unity is achieved by relating trunk shape to branch shape.
If the trunk is straight, the branches should be straight. If
the trunk curves, the branches should have curves.