Page 66 - BCI Bonsai & Stone Appreciation Q1 2025

Montreal Botanical Garden’s
Bonsai and Penjing Collection.
Top left: Arctic Dwarf Birch,
Betula nana, donated by David
D Johnson, Toronto, Ontario.
Top right: Chinese Hackberry,
Celtis sinensis, donated by Wu
Yee Sun, Hong Kong.
Bottom left: Eastern White
Cedar, Thuja occidentalis,
donated by David D Johnson,
Toronto, Ontario.
Bottom right: White Spruce,
Picea glauca, donated by David
D Johnson, Toronto, Ontario.
64 It was during this event that I reconnected with Joan
Greenway, a former BCI Director. Joan had two stunning
legacy bonsai compositions on display, exemplifying the
artistry and dedication she brings to her work. It was a
pleasure to catch up and share our mutual appreciation
for the exhibit and its significance.
The TBS Volunteers
Volunteerism was the defining feature of the event.
TBS members brought professional-level expertise to
various roles: marketing, wayfinding, exhibit setup,
workshops, demonstrations, merchandise sales, visitor
reception, and food preparation for ceremonies. “Tree
wranglers” ensured every bonsai was photographed
| BCI | January/February/March 2025
professionally by Mark Olson for a commemora-
tive album. Their warmth and hospitality created a
welcoming atmosphere, with free admission for children
under 12 ensuring the exhibit was accessible to families.
The exhibit’s layout, masterfully organized by i
Pochwat, a former TBS president, and Angelo Dumitru,
the show’s chair, balanced beauty and functionality.
Careful attention was given to traffic flow and first
impressions, ensuring a seamless and memorable visitor
experience.
I would like to acknowledge Josh Chang, the president
of the Toronto Bonsai Society, whose dedication and
leadership were instrumental in the overall coordina-
tion of the event. Josh tirelessly worked from 8 a.m.