Page 35 - BSAM 2015 Q4

each of the trees, thru the branches, casting beautiful shadows.
Speaking of the trees, they were awe-inspiring, and as you would expect, each one was even more impres- sive and massive than the one before it. e exhibitors are to be commended for what they presented and although there were awards given, there were no los- ers in this bunch. is was truly the best of American Bonsai on display.
On the nal day, e Artisans Cup was celebrated at an awards brunch on the roof top of the Nines Hotel. e view was spectacular and a tting location to an- nounce the award winning trees. Ryan spoke about his journey to this point and how he started this path the 4th year into his apprenticeship under Mr. Kimura in Japan. e realization that he was now speaking at the Artisans Cup and achieving that dream many years later, caught up with him, bringing him to tears, as he thanked everyone for being there to celebrate this achievement. e Artisans Cup was truly a world- class event.
e stage has been set. Now is the time to take what we have learned from Ryan Neal and move forward to showcase what makes bonsai in the United States unique and our own. As we emerge from the shad- ows of Japanese traditions we branch out to our own unique style. We have much to o er the world and I for one, am looking forward to being part of the move- ment that will de ne American Bonsai.
Many of the photos, videos of the events and panel discussions will be available in time on the
e Awards:
First Place: Randy Knight’s Rocky Mountain Juniper
Second Place: Tim Priest’s Sierra Juniper
ird Place Tie: Amy Blanton’s Rocky Mountain Juniper (with Mike Blanton in memoriam) and to Konner Jenson for his Japanese White Pine.
Best Companion Piece: Randy Knight’s Companion Plant with Coastal Redwood
Following are the trees owned by BCI members that were selected from about 300 entries from all over the USA to be exhibited at the Artisans Cup in Portland.
Paul Pikel Collection, Buttonwood, Conocarpus erectus, Pot made by Rob Addonizio, Amy Blanton Collection, (with Mike Blanton in memoriam), Eagle’s Landing, Rocky stand made by Mark Rynes, photo by Paul Pikel. Mountain Juniper, Juniperus scopulorum, 91.44 cm, antique Chinese container.
Photo by Rhys Lynn.
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