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)