I know it's not fall yet, but all too soon for some of us. This is Bill Valavanis' famous Full moon maple. You might notice how it has been thinned to offer a look inside, revealing the upper trunk and and even some twigs way up top.
We've some good ones by Bill today. He's one of North America's most accomplished bonsai artists and teachers, and after creating and hosting seven U.S, National Bonsai Exhibitions, he is without a doubt our leading bonsai impresario. He is also the third inductee into the North American Bonsai Hall of Fame.
Perfect photo, sweet tree! This lovely deciduous Magnolia with pulsing flower buds is a study in contrast and timing.
Another deciduous Magnolia that's about to bloom.
Here's a Magnolia that's just a little more advanced in the bloom cycle, with both buds and flowers. You're probably familiar with Bill's magazine, but if you're not, here it is. Still going strong too, with an online version that was added recently.
Bill likes red pots! The tree is a Firethorn (Pyracantha) that belongs to Bill Valavanis. Bill sent it to us with the line I LIKE RED POTS TOO!, in response to a Bonsai Bark post we did in 2018 ago that was titled: Red Bonsai Pots, a Shift in Taste.
This is one of Bill's luxurious Japanese maples, of which there are plenty.
Where's Bill?
More color! Once you get hooked on the brilliance it's hard to stop. This Full moon maple with its fiery foliage belongs to Bill.
Unless you live in Vermont, or a similarly colorful place like Rochester NY, you might not know that spring color is almost as dramatic as full color. A little more subtle, but stunning nevertheless. This lovely Siegen Japanese maple with scroll and companion is pretty good example of early spring splendor. It belongs to Bill Valavanis, as does everything shown here today.
Multi hued Toyo Nishiki Flowering Quince by Bill.
Just in case you think Bill is all business. I believe this shot is from 2018 38th Nippon Bonsai Taikan Exhibition.
Where to find him:
Bill on FB
Bill's blog
Bill's magazine
U.S. National Bonsai Exhibition
