Tuesday, July 10, 2007

The Fundamental Forms of the Miniature Art

Bonsai, as you probably know it today, is a miniature plant or tree that is maintained old looking yet small. That’s what most people know about this tiny creature. But the truth of the matter is, there is more to bonsai than its being small and old looking. Originated from China but was only popularized in Japan, bonsai is considered by its masters and hobbyists not just as a horticultural masterpiece, but even a profession and art. It is viewed by many as an art form that defines the degree of understanding and patience that a practitioner can offer while being with nature. Yes, keeping a bonsai alive and good looking takes a lot more patience and understanding. You even need to exert much of what you can offer, including effort and time, just to make your bonsai healthy or in good shape.

Once attacked by several protests, bonsai is rapidly growing in popularity these days. It is not only popular in China and Japan or in other Asian countries, but also accepted and appreciated in the West. Thus, there’s no surprise if you can find some species and forms of it even at your local area.

Speaking of forms, it is important to note, especially for the beginners, that bonsai comes in a number of faces. It is available in a number of forms and styles that each aspiring bonsai master should consider. Want to know what these specific styles are?

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Great article on bonsai! I live in San Francisco where there are space constraints; most people here don't have yards so bonsai is a great way of integrating the urban with the natural here.