Breaking the Boundaries of Bonsai

In Western culture, the word "bonsai" is used as an umbrella term for "bunjae" (Korean), "pen jing" ("tray scenery", Chinese), and "bonsai" ("potted plant", Japanese). (Western cultures have also found a way to commercialize this art by selling 'bonsai starter kits' for $5.99 in mini boxes, commonly found next to the similar miniature zen gardens in bookstores.)

Traditionally, bonsai is easily summarized as a miniature tree grown in a container. However, it is interesting to view the alternative ways to practice bonsai as a hobby. David Hart, uses bonsai to create miniature landscapes through out his yard. In the rear, he has a water garden, complete with waterfall and bridge, and surrounded by rocks that he spent years collecting (as opposed to those 'fake rocks' used by proffessional landscapers and water garden installers.)

David uses different forms of moss, animals and other appropiate miniature things (foxes, bears, deer, and snakes as well as tunnels, houses, and many other miniature things... commonly made of ceramic or stone.)

David agreed to grant me an interview, as I was absolutely intrigued by his work.

"What was it that inspired your interest in bonsai?" I began, following him through his gardens with a notebook in hand.

"A friend borrowed a book from a relative. I was already a farm boy, I had lots of houseplants. What interested me most about bonsai was the creativity of it. Taking the traditional method (of keeping the trees in a pot) out of it's norm (as a houseplant) just added more creativity to it."

"Do you have a favorite piece?" I wondered aloud, a question that had not been in my notepad. Without thinking, David led me to a large, colorful display that was set on a stone slab.