About Q2 2025

As we explore the ever-evolving world of bonsai and suiseki, this issue takes us on a journey that highlights tradition, innovation, and the growing global exchange of ideas. In particular, we turn our attention to South America, where bonsai artistry is flourishing in unique and exciting ways.

Brazil stands out in this issue, offering a glimpse into its dynamic bonsai culture. Carlos Tramujas introduces us to Bonsai do Campo, showcasing its scope of products, services and forward-looking vision in producing high-quality plants at affordable prices. Meanwhile, Marcelo Gallep presents the smallest bonsai in Brazil, proving that artistry knows no size limits, even if it means acquiring micro bonsai tools. Check out the QR codes that link to his provocative videos! Across continents, bonsai remains a practice of patience and passion, and the voices from South America enrich our understanding of its evolution worldwide.

In Europe, The Trophy 2025 in Belgium marks a milestone, celebrating its Silver Jubilee with an ever-evolving standard of excellence. Christian Vos, Public Relation Manager, BAB. (Bonsai Association Belgium) reports on the exhibit and Gudrun Benz writes about her passion: the outstanding suiseki display at The Trophy.

In the Second Edition of the Kifu Bonsai Awards, Gaetano Conte guides us through the competition’s highlights, introducing the Super Jury, award categories, and winners.

From Taiwan, Min Hsuan Lo and Andrew Lo share the poetic beauty of Severinia buxifolia, reflecting on the pursuit of beauty, experimentation, and the joy of bonsai—a passion that continues to unite people worldwide.

Marco Mei, a recent BCI Life Member, meditates on the Breath of Leaves with his love of words, reminding us that bonsai is about aesthetics, endurance, creation, and harmony with nature.

In an exclusive interview, BCI Contributing Editor and Director Massimo Bandera speaks with Emanuele Cappellano about his deeply personal journey in cultivating a bonsai forest from seed—a story of patience, growth, and connection.

This issue also brings comparative perspectives, with Budi Sulistyo and José L. Rodriguez Macias discussing the differences between ASPAC and ABFF, while Sebastiano Villante traces the journey of an Olea europaea from collection to exhibition. In every story, we see bonsai as a bridge between cultures, generations, and artistic interpretations.

We conclude with a review of Bonsai Empire’s Kimura Techniques Masterclass 2, which showcases Kimura’s extraordinary ability to transform massive trees through extreme bending, radical redesign, and intricate refinement.

Wherever you are in your bonsai journey, we hope these stories inspire you to grow, learn, and connect—perhaps even looking southward for fresh perspectives.

—Joe Grande, Canada