Page 45 - BSAM 2018 Q1

The AIAS (Associazione Italiana Amatori Suiseki) was established in April 1997. It is associated with the European Suiseki Association (ESA). AIAS has 76 mem- bers (in 2017). Among this small number
of stone enthusiasts are some very active members who invest much of their time to advance the cause of stone appreciation. One of those is Luciana Queirolo, president and editor of the quarterly newsletter of the association. She also publishes the catalogue of the an- nual congress which includes: the history of the host- ing bonsai club; a description of the venue; pictures of the display at the show and of each stone in show with photo and information about the owners; an introduction of the judges for the competition; and, the theme of presentations/lectures held on occasion of the convention. e stones on exhibit are divided into the following categories: landscape stones; ob- ject stones; surface pattern and color stones; multiple stones on shelves; and biseki, stones to admire (stones for contemplation). ree prizes are given for each category.
Recently, there were discussions among the AIAS members about the scope of their exhibit. Should only native stones from Italy be accepted for display or also stones from abroad? What about stones collected by the owners themselves and for which they made a wooden stand (daiza) for their stones? Another ques- tion is the alternation of a stone: it is accepted to cut a stone at the base for stability or even to enhance its shape? ere are many pros and cons for the di er- ent views. A main argument for some people to con- sider more clearly de ned guidelines is that money will decide the winner if all stones are allowed for competition, regardless of their origin and complete naturalness.
Today the organization cooperates with 11 Italian Bonsai Clubs which help to nd a suitable location for
Top; Winner of the AIAS Trophy, a mountain stone of ideal dimensions from Liguria, Italy, titled “The dark side of the mountain,” collector Mr. Claudio Villa
Middle; First winner of the category Landscape Stones, titled “Clear night,” origin: Liguria, Italy, collector: Valdi ori Attilio
Bottom; Second winner of the category Landscape Stones, titled “Eterna,” origin: Liguria. Collector: Primangelo Pondini
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