About Q1 2024

Last year, 2024, was a banner year for BCI with two regional conventions and a record-breaking annual international convention in Shuyang, China, where 1360 Bonsai and Penjing were exhibited. This is a testament to President Chen’s commitment to the art of bonsai. The coming year promises to be just as spectacular for the bonsai world. On April 25 to 28, BCI and the Lone Star Bonsai Federation will convene in Houston, Texas, for the 2024 Annual International Convention, Bonsai on the Bayou, hosted by the Houston Bonsai Society. Typical for a North American convention, the focus is on teaching. The organizers offer 24 workshops, six seminars, four exhibit critiques, and two demonstrations limited to a few participants for maximum interaction with the demonstrating masters. As the fourth largest city in the USA, Houston provides the perfect backdrop to this outstanding bonsai experience. Don’t waste a minute; go to www.houstonbonsaisociety.com and reserve your spot. Space is limited.

Bonsai, Penjing, and Viewing Stone appreciation have experienced many golden ages. As these captivating art forms have spread worldwide, people from all walks of life continually discover these meditative and creative expressions. From professionals to passionate enthusiasts, these art forms have a life-changing effect, as you’ll see when you read the stories in this edition.

Herbert Obermayer and Gudrun Benz traveled to Milan, Italy, to participate in and report on the Crespi Cup, one of Europe’s premier bonsai and suiseki events. The Crespi family avidly supports the Japanese aesthetic and provides an immersive experience for lovers of all things Japanese; taiko drumming, tea ceremony, calligraphy, and more.

BCI’s 2nd vice president Min Hsuan Lo and his son, Andrew, report on the Taiwan Bonsai Creators Association’s exhibit. This exclusive organization requires all bonsai to be created by the exhibitor. The trees are superb. By the way, Vice President Lo is one of the headliners at Bonsai on the Bayou in Houston this spring.

Some of bonsai award-winner Tony Tickle’s best friends are women who are passionate about bonsai. Tony profiles four artists who have amazing trees and have well-earned international reputations. Watch for them at a bonsai event near you.

I watched one of Bjorn Bjorholm’s videos about his “legacy” tree and approached Bjorn for a collaborative reboot in print. The tree could be described as “drop-dead gorgeous,” and it is just at the beginning of its bonsai journey. As Bjorn moves to Japan, the tree has a new home.

BCI Director Massimo Bandera presents the work of one of his students, an inspiring story of how bonsai can enrich a hobbyist’s life and provide meaning.

Some people, whether through training, intellect, or a combination of both, excel at whatever they do. Pierre Leloup, a professional designer, is such a person. He shows us how he carved a base for a stone and showcases his collection of suiseki.

We are enjoying another golden age of bonsai and related arts, this time international in scope. Let’s keep innovating and excelling!

—Joe Grande, Canada