Watch my video here: Bonsai exhibition and bonsai demonstration.
Do you already have a bonsai tree? I might have seen a bonsai tree before, but it was never something I delved into until I had the chance to visit the bonsai exhibition during the open day at Lodder Bonsai. A new bonsai world opened up for me.
A Short Dive into History
The history of bonsai is fascinating. It started about three thousand years ago in China. There, ornamental plants were grown to create miniature landscapes that mimic the natural beauty of landscapes, complete with rocks, trees and figures. In China, this art was known as ‘penzai’, meaning ‘plant in a pot’, or ‘penjing’, meaning ‘landscape in a pot’. About twelve hundred years ago, Chinese Chan Buddhist monks brought this art to Japan, laying the foundation for the refined and symbolic art form we now know as bonsai. The Japanese word ‘bonsai’ literally means ‘tree in a pot’.
A Bonsai Demonstration by Master Hiroki Kato
The bonsai demonstration led by Japanese master Hiroki Kato was a highlight of my visit. With his skilled hands and special tools, he demonstrated how he shaped a bonsai tree into a beautiful work of art. It was impressive to see how he worked with precision, treating his bonsai tree as a living work of art.
The Importance of Bonsai Tree Pruning and Shaping
A crucial aspect of bonsai care is pruning and shaping the bonsai tree. Master Hiroki Kato demonstrated how important it is to regularly prune the bonsai tree to maintain the desired shape and aesthetics. The use of wires and special tools helped him shape the bonsai tree, giving him complete control over his creation.
The Diversity of Bonsai Trees
The variety of bonsai trees at Lodder Bonsai was impressive. They come from the Far East, imported from Japan, China, and Korea. There are different types, from conifers to deciduous and fruit trees, each with their own charm and beauty.
A Touch of Zen and Meditation
Bonsai has deep roots in Japanese Zen Buddhism, originating from Chinese Chan Buddhism. It requires patience, dedication, and a peaceful mind to care for and shape a bonsai tree. For bonsai practitioners, caring for and shaping the miniature trees is not just an artistic pursuit, but also a form of meditation and contemplation. It is an art form that transforms not only the exterior of the tree but also the mind of the artist.
Delicious Japanese Food
My visit to Lodder Bonsai would not be complete without enjoying delicious Japanese food. I highly recommend Japanese food prepared by the Japanese couple from ‘Food Escape Foodtruck and Catering’. The okonomiyaki, a Japanese pancake filled with various ingredients, was a true delight. A perfect end to an inspiring day.
A Future Bonsai Tree Adventure
Although I currently do not own a bonsai tree, my visit to Lodder Bonsai has piqued my interest and sparked my imagination. Now that I’ve started my vegetable garden, I can see myself creating my own mini Japanese garden in the future, complete with serene rocks, flowing water, and beautiful bonsai trees. The mere thought brings a smile to my face. But for now, I’m glad I had the chance to discover and explore the world of bonsai. And you, would you also be interested in doing something with bonsai?
