The science, art and beauty of Bonsai
How does a Botanical Garden mount a gallery exhibit? It gathers sculptures, in this case, miniature, living trees, and arrays them in a greenhouse.
Living Sculptures: The Art and Science of Bonsai is open now at Sonoma Botanical Garden.
“We are excited to launch the Garden’s brand-new arts and nature exhibition program this winter with a stunning display of bonsai,” says Jeannie Perales, SBG executive director. “Bonsai is the perfect seasonal feature for the Garden’s unique Asian woodland setting, where East meets West.”
Some 20 miniature masterpieces will be on view, meticulously nurtured and shaped by the skilled hands of local expert bonsai artisans. The show is ‘curated’ by the Redwood Empire Bonsai Society.
“Bon-sai” is a Japanese term meaning “planted in a container,” though the actual art form originates from an ancient Chinese horticultural practice, penjing, later redeveloped under the influence of Japanese Zen Buddhism.
Meditative and disciplined forms evolved to emphasize more specific techniques and shapes to create exquisite specimens. Today, bonsai is globally celebrated with a fusion of ancient techniques and modern sensibilities.
Living Sculptures features a fusion of modern and classic forms, from graceful formal uprights to dramatic windswept styles – each a testament to the dedication and skill of their creators. Several local bonsai artists have loaned their specimens to the show including Alan Murakami, president of REBS, and George Haas, honorary member of REBS.
Murakami’s interest in bonsai began about 40 years ago and he has been a member of REBS since 1987. He studied under many talented bonsai artists, currently learning from Adam Toth, who recently finished an apprenticeship in Japan.
“Bonsai is a rewarding art where learning new things is a constant,” Murakami explains. “Working on your tree in a Zen like state and seeing its beautiful transformation is magical.”
Haas, who was instrumental in initiating the collaboration with SBG, started doing bonsai after retirement from the military in 2003. A Japanese American friend believed he needed a hobby and bonsai turned into much more than just a casual enjoyment.
“I belong to the bonsai community at large and enjoy the living art,” he said. “I appreciate the learning and friendship gained through bonsai,” Haas says.
Bonsai demonstrations and special interpretive tours will be offered throughout the run of the exhibition, through March 22.
Exhibition signage throughout the Garden’s indoor gallery illuminates the intricate roots of this timeless practice and digs into the science that is critical to the survival of these tiny trees.
Visitors can then stroll the Garden’s outdoor paths to see some of the full-sized species showcased in the exhibition.
Sonoma Botanical Garden, 12841 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen. 9a-4p, closed Tuesday. Admission charge. Sonomabg.org.
Photos by Daniel Perales Studio
