One of the remarkable aspects of the Japan Suiseki Exhibition is that all of the stones on display were from Japan. This included a number of stones of Japanese origin that returned to Japan for the exhibition. The contributors included some of the better known suiseki enthusiasts outside of Japan – people who have worked hard […]
Exhibits
Exhibits are where we can see bonsai at their best. Explore posts from Bonsai Exhibits in the U.S. including the U.S. National Bonsai Exhibition and Japanese events including the world-famous Kokufu and Taikan-ten exhibits.
Japan Suiseki Exhibition
On February 9th, 2014, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum opened its doors to an historic event – the Japan Suiseki Exhibition. Produced by the Nippon Suiseki Association, the event featured some of Japan’s best-known viewing stones and accessories. Highlights included suiseki that had rarely left their homes in temples or private collections such as Kurokamiyama or […]
Tête-à-tête
A seated figure, or figures, arranged face to face. Such a suggestion came to this stone’s owner and the idea stuck, earning it the name, “Chat.” Chat was recently on display along with scores of other impressive suiseki at a historical event held in Tokyo this past February. Details to follow. “Chat” – Yase sudachi maguro ishi […]
A final pass through Kokufu 88
The first time I visited the Kokufu-ten was in 1999. I remember thinking, “wow, that’s a lot of trees.” Over the course of a week I saw the exhibit twice and felt like I was only just starting to gain an appreciation for the subtle artistry that went into the trees. This year I was in […]
Shohin bonsai at Kokufu 88
Shohin bonsai, at Kokufu-ten, are saved for the last room. Each half of this year’s exhibit featured five displays with five or six trees each, followed by a handful of kifu-sized bonsai. Although many visitors have had it by the time they make it to the shohin room – not everyone is used to seeing 200+ […]