Annual Picnic and Auction

C-E-L-E-B-R-A-T-E!!
That’s the goal for our 45th Anniversary!

Future Meetings
September 19 - Design by Committee Workshop
September 20-21 - PBS Exhibit - Japanese House, Fairmount Park

May Meeting

Our guest speaker for May, Mr. Jim Barrett, joined us as part of his East coast tour. Jim's demo material, which he shipped ahead from California, was a shimpaku juniper, which he grew from a 1969 cutting. The tree had previously been part of a saikei done by Jim, but had become overgrown and out of scale for the planting, and so it was removed, placed in a growing pot and allowed to grow for several years. PBS was lucky to get this 35+ year-old material for the demo.
Jim's bonsai learning experiences came in the 50's and 60's in California, so he is very well rooted in the Japanese philosophy and techniques. He is a traditionalist in one sense, but open to new ideas and techniques as they are proven.
Jim worked the tree in the bunjin style (or literati style) as the tree fit most of the criteria for that style - a slim trunk with little taper, and no specific pattern to the branches. A great deal of foliage was removed, several branches jinned, wiring completed, and branches placed in the styling process. Along the way, Jim gave some excellent tips on styling, care of the shimpaku, as well as a real appreciation of the growth of bonsai on the West Coast. Jim founded the first English-speaking club in southern California. Prior to the organization of Jim's club, Japanese was the only language spoken at various bonsai club meetings.
He also provided some information on pot selection and a few tidbits regarding origins of bonsai pots. For example, the preferred pot for bunjin is the nombon style of pot, a rustic round pot without any discernible feet. This pot originated from the use of storage jar lids as pots in the early days.
As a bonsai teacher, bonsai artist, and bonsai potter, Jim has few peers. His knowledge is extensive, his styling skills solid, and he blessed with a great eye for design. It was a real treat watching him work. During the break, Jim spent a good deal of time answering individual questions and providing a good deal of humor.
Lucky winner of the demo raffle was Chris Miller.
Thanks to Jim Barrett from PBS for a great program!

September Exhibit

Soon it will be time to start getting your trees in shape to join us for the PBS exhibit at the Japanese House and Garden ("Shofuso") in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. Last year we had a great turn out of members' trees. Awards will be given in three cateories again this year.
Who: All members, both new and experienced, alike are requested to display a bonsai.
When: September 20-21.
For more information or to sign up for exhibit, contact Mike Marinelli, who is coordinating the Japanese House Exhibit, at (609-234-6694) or email: marinelli1156@comcast.net .
Informal exhibits such as the one in the Japanese House allow us to display our efforts at bonsai, as well as inform the general public about the fascinating culture of bonsai in a relaxed and quiet atmosphere.

Falling Leaves

We were very sorry to learn of the death of Dominick Haigh. Dominick was an active member and a frequent exhibitor for PBS at the Flower Show.
Our condolences to his family members - he will be missed.

Dues Reminder

Directions to Old Mill Bonsai Studio
PBS June Picnic & Auction