Miniature trees rooted with emotional stories of healing
Bonsai is more than just art, it is an experience of holistic healing through each tree that touches an individual in various ways.
The Wag-‘n-Bietjie Bonsai Kai hosted a Bonsai exhibition at the NWU Botanical Garden Gallery on Saturday, 2 March, with various members showcasing their works of art.
The general public also had an opportunity to come witness their art pieces and learn more about bonsai. There were also demonstrations from Pieter Loubser, one of the founding members of this Bonsai club. Loubser has also wrote various books on bonsai and is an expert on this harmonious art form.
The concept of bonsai (literally tray planting) took root in China and is known as Penjing. The art form spread to Japan, where it was originally seen as a popular pastime for the wealthy. Bonsai differs from Penjing as it focuses on a single tree, or species of trees that are aesthetically defined.
The roots of the Wag-‘n-Bietjie Bonsai Kai go back to Klerksdorp, where it first started. Through the years it has progressed into the Wag-’n-Bietjie Bonsai Kai with 20-odd members who partake in this unique art form.
Prof. Caroll Hermann, an Associate Professor in Ecopsychology at the NWU Mahikeng Campus, is an experienced and enthusiastic member of the Wag-‘n-Bietjie Bonsai Club. She states that the club meet once a month.
“We decided to hosts these exhibitions to showcase Bonsai to the public. We are a relatively small club and we need to attract more members. We don’t ask membership fees,” she says.
According to Hermann, the club aims to regularly do demonstrations on bonsai, the different styles, how to mix soil, shape leaves and so forth.
“I did my Ph.D. on the healing effects of bonsai. I have always been interested in trees from a young age. In Pretoria, I saw bonsai at an exhibition and from there on my love grew. I have around 500 trees at my home in KwaZulu-Natal Natal,” adds Hermann, who has a real passion for this art form.
Hermann states the Bonsai is used to tell stories and reflect people’s own unique stories.
“There are numerous different styles, such as Suiseki, which focuses on stone appreciation. Different accent plants are also used together with the Bonsai,” added Hermann, whilst doing a quick walkthrough regarding the Bonsai on display.
Loubser, who had one of his books “Kuns in die Kleine” on display, states that Bonsai is an expression of emotion and unique to the individual.
“Each Bonsai is unique as every tree. I have a huge appreciation for this art form. There is always something new to explore and experience. Everyone has their own style.”
For more information on the bonsai club contact Prof Jaco Kruger on 072 539 1410.
