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Message from the Editor
The true beauty of bonsai as an industry, is that it attracts hobbyists, artists and professionals alike. It attracts not only those who areinterested in plants, but also people who pursue collateral hobbies and artforms such as viewing stones, pottery and carpentry. It attracts people from many different parts of the world and from every walk of life.
While some of these pursuits require solitary work,there is a huge social component to Bonsai and Stone appreciation. It is at the annual exhibit, expo or convention, where bonsai hermits become social, gregarious, fun-loving people eager to share their experiences with one another.
These events, made possible by volunteer organizers and workers, allow many of us to exhibit our work and enjoy a moment of recognition for a tree or stone we proudly present. Whether the event is a local club show or an international convention that attracts the best of the best, this issue is a celebration of the exhibits and conventions that feature the bestwork of hobbyists and artists.
The 8th World Bonsai Convention, the prestigious quadrennial organized by WBFF (World Bonsai Friendship Federation),exceeded all expectations.
If you weren’t there, we have three reports for you. Nikunj Parekh, Jyoti Parekh and Sujata Bhat report on the convention and present some of the bonsaion exhibit. Gudrun Benz reports on the Nippon Suiseki Association’sviewing stones exhibit held at the same time. For Alan Jabsfrom Australia, the convention was the highlight of his once-in-a-lifetime tour of Japan. I think you’ll enjoy his point of view and enthusiasm.
BCI Director Massimo Bandera, devoted supporter of BCI, faithfully awards the BCI Excellence Awards at the preeminent Arcobonsai and Arcofiori in Italy where this award has become a tradition. Gudrun Benz s report on the 2017 Bonsai Triennale an event staged by Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic is a great example of how many countries are creating world quality bonsai and viewing stones. As a BCI Director, she too awards BCI Excellence medals to deserving artists.
Budi Sulistyo, BCI Director, was invited to demonstrate at the 2017 ABS Convention hosted by the Bonsai Societies of Florida. ABS (American Bonsai Society) is celebrating its 50th anniversary and the quality of trees exhibited by their members is proof of this organization s success in promoting bonsai in the USA. Our most northerly event was held on the Laurentian Plateau where there are just a scant 114 days to the growing season. Organized by four societies in Quebec and one in Ontario to display their best, Joan Greenway went there to represent BCI and report on the event. Joan s article includes husband Brian s expert photos.
Our BCI Member Spotlight, presented by BCI Director IS Ng, is on Chee Peng Tan who successfully cultivates ancient-looking bonsai in a matter of years. Speaking of a short bonsai time frame, be sure to read how Budi Sulistyo transforms a Bucida spinosa to make it his own creation.
Joe Grande, Canada (editor@bonsai-bci.com)
Message from the Editor
About Q1 2025
The 13th Liuzhou Viewing Stone Festival & BCI International Landscape Bonsai Invitational Convention was a feast for the senses and the soul. From the moment attendees arrived, they were greeted with warm smiles, a rich program of events, and artistry that inspired many. The creative brilliance of Chinese Bonsai and Penjing masters shone brightly, setting the tone for a gathering celebrating tradition, innovation, and the bonds uniting us as a global bonsai community.
This issue brings you the reflections of authors who were there to experience it all firsthand, each offering a unique perspective shaped by their personal journeys in the art of bonsai.
Dr. Sujata Bhat, BCI 1st Vice President, a bonsai artist and teacher from India, captures the event’s essence with the keen eye of a storyteller, weaving together art, nature, and the friendships that blossom at such gatherings. Indonesia’s Budi Sulistyo shares his joy in discovering the intricate beauty of stones and bonsai, vividly depicting the convention’s unforgettable moments.
From the UK, award-winning bonsai artist Tony Tickle shares his admiration for the Penjing landscapes, offering personal photographs and reflections that reveal how deeply he was inspired by this journey. In contrast, Australia’s second-generation bonsai professional Tony Bebb brings warmth and camaraderie in recounting the signing of friendship agreements at Baowen Garden—a significant milestone for the global bonsai community.
Yang Xi and Liu Chuangang, both from China, delve into the artistry of the event with an eye for tradition and innovation. Their reflections remind us why Liuzhou is a vital hub for bonsai and suiseki enthusiasts.
This issue also features BCI 2nd Vice President Min Hsuan Lo and his son Andrew, a dynamic duo from Taiwan, whose technical expertise and poetic approach to bonsai are as inspiring as they are educational. In two articles presented by BCI Director and contributing editor Massimo Bandera, Alessandro Bonardo from Italy, an apprentice of the legendary Masahiko Kimura, shares a fascinating look into the Nemaki technique, while Carmelo Bonanno brings us a story of triumph with his award-winning mountain pine.
Our technical minds are also treated to an article by Doctors Enrique Castaño and Luis Carlos Rodriguez Zapata, who offer a deep dive into how plant cells communicate in response to water. Their work exemplifies the union of art and science that defines bonsai.
Closer to home, I had the pleasure of attending the Toronto Bonsai Society’s 60th Anniversary Exhibit. Witnessing the dedication of volunteers working in one of the most challenging growing zones for bonsai was genuinely inspiring. Their passion and commitment remind us of the vibrant community that sustains our shared art form.
As you read through this issue, I hope you’ll feel the same sense of connection and inspiration that I did while preparing it. Behind every article is a story, a personality, and a shared love for bonsai and stones that transcends borders. Let us celebrate the authors, their contributions, and the volunteers who make it all possible
—Joe Grande, Canada
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| Q3 (J/A/S) | June 1 |
| Q4 (O/N/D) | September 1 |
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Joe Grande, editor
Bonsai and Stone Appreciation Magazine
41110 MUN 53 N, Ste. Genevieve, MB, R5J 0B3 Canada
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