About Q2 2024

As we usher in a new season, we find ourselves amidst the vibrant tapestry of the bonsai world, where each tree tells a story. With excitement and anticipation, we present this latest edition, brimming with tales from the heart of the international bonsai community.

In this issue, we embark on a journey through exhibitions that showcase the pinnacle of bonsai artistry. From the triumphant celebrations captured by Herbert Obermayer in the Bonsai Association Belgium’s Trophy 2024 to the serene elegance of Suiseki explored by Gudrun Benz, each page unveils a glimpse into the excellence of bonsai and stone appreciation at this prestigious event. The Best Conifer: Pinus mugo by Mauro Stemberger, Italy, in a pot by Tiberius Gracco, also from Italy, grace the cover of this edition.

BCI Vice President Min Hsuan Lo, a headliner in Bonsai on the Bayou, reports on his experience in Thailand, the warm welcome he received from this tropical country’s bonsai practitioners and the superb bonsai they are creating.

Venturing further, we delve into insightful articles from enthusiasts and experts. From Min Hsuan Lo and Andrew Lo’s exploration of celebrating a birth with a Pitanga instead of the traditional Nu Er Hong and Juang Yuan Hung to Herbert Aigner’s groundbreaking techniques of air layering wild alpine Mugo pines, these narratives paint a vivid picture of the boundless creativity, energy, and craftsmanship.

But our journey doesn’t end there. With Maurizio Lissolo and Massimo Bandera, we uncover the captivating allure of Geisha, a Juniperus chinensis, and along with Tony Tickle’s poignant reflections on the artistic essence of bonsai, we invite you to immerse yourself in the aesthetics of this ancient art form.

As we turn the pages, we also spotlight the vibrant spirit of bonsai clubs worldwide. Gabriele Sbaraini shares the birth and growth of the Arcobonsai Club. At the same time, your editor provides valuable insights into Bonsai Empire’s Intermediate Course 3, underscoring the importance of education in nurturing the next generation of bonsai enthusiasts.

BCI director Enrique Castaño introduces us to Greys Herrera from Cuba, an avid photographer and bonsai enthusiast who combines her two passions with a creative spirit and poetry to tell evocative stories. BCI Director Massimo Bandera discovered Valter Giuliano’s bonsai paradise and his creative force, which will inspire many to look in their own regions for alluring yamadori. Valter also raises the bar to show how a bonsai garden can look. Got mountains?

This edition is not just a collection of articles; it’s a celebration of the enduring passion and dedication that unites us all. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a budding enthusiast, we invite you to join us as we embark on this captivating journey through the world of bonsai.

As we prepare to debut this edition at the 2024 BCI International Convention, Bonsai on the Bayou, in Houston, Texas, let us come together to celebrate the artistry, innovation, and camaraderie that define our beloved bonsai community.

—Joe Grande, Canada