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The Incredible Hulk — a monumental Ponderosa Pine — began its journey in 2006 when it was collected from the wild. In 2009, during a pivotal moment in his apprenticeship, Ryan Neil was entrusted with this massive tree—measuring nearly eight to ten feet in length—for its first professional styling. The challenge was immense: compressing its vast structure using wedge cuts and rock bars, navigating high expectations, and wrestling with the insecurities of a young bonsai professional. Though the experience was daunting, it sparked a deep fascination and commitment. For the following year, Ryan studied photographs of the tree daily, imagining how to improve and evolve it, fully aware that his skills were still developing to shape such a remarkable specimen. Two months before completing his apprenticeship, the tree’s owner faced financial difficulties and offered Ryan the chance to purchase The Incredible Hulk. He eagerly accepted, and upon returning to the United States, he found the tree healthier and more mature. This marked the beginning of a new phase—restyling and refining its form, exploring how design evolves through time and growth. Over the years, The Incredible Hulk has been a living classroom—teaching Ryan about structural setting, styling phases, growth management, setbacks, and recovery. It has been repotted, tied down, and carefully shaped into the slow, refined growth of an ancient, relic-like bonsai, now housed in a stunning Tom Benda pot. Looking at this tree reveals not only a majestic Ponderosa Pine but also the journey of Ryan Neil—from an aspiring professional to a teacher who developed an educational system to help others understand and master the art of bonsai.