Nurturing a living art
The millennia-old art form of Bonsai still grows strong. Bangladesh Bonsai Society (BBS) organised the 12th Annual Bonsai Exhibition from October 14. The four day event was held at the WVA auditorium, Dhanmondi, in the capital. Professor Abdullah Abu Sayeed inaugurated the exhibition as the chief guest, while Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Tamotsu Shinotsuka was present as guest of honour on the occasion.
In his speech, Tamotsu Shinotsuka said, “Bonsai is unique artwork in the sense that it harmonises the artiste's imagination with the law of nature; Bonsai artistes combine aesthetic ideas with the living spirit of trees. Bonsai that originated in China has evolved a new dimension in Japan where it was considered a separate entity, while still being a part of the nature. For many years it was in the domain of religion, shrouded in mystical ideologies.”
Almost 600 bonsai pieces covering more than 60 species are being exhibited this time, among which some rare species like Hijol, Tomal, Chhatim, Shyaora, Kamini, Nishinda, Indrojob, Shwet Chandan, Boichi, Junipar and Thai Cherry might make the visitors nostalgic. Several wild collections like Hijol, Kamini, Nishinda have also added a new dimension to the effort.
A combination of different styles like “Informal Upright,” “Broom,” “Cascade,” “Semi-cascade,” “Slanting,” “Wind Swept,” “Root-over Rock,” “Literati,” (Exposed Root), “Multi Trunk,” “Group Planting,” (Forest) and “Landscape,” on display are an archetypal example of unity in diversity.
In the art of bonsai, the size of the leaves must be proportionate to the height of the tree, otherwise it has little or no aesthetic appeal. Precision of measurement in pruning, scale harmonisation with the style and exact knowledge about feeding ingredients of species are also important in nourishing this art. Unfortunately most of the entries are being prematurely exhibited; several hadn't even assumed the proper shape of a bonsai tree.
However, several entries caught the eye. “Kamini” (Murraya Exotica), a work by Anisul Haque, general secretary of BBS, is truly a work of art. “Kamini” is over 25 year- old and informal upright in style. Haque's other works are “Group Planting” and “Landscape.” “Group Planting” is an attempt to exhibit a miniature form of a tamarind forest while “Landscape” , aesthetically based on a wood sculpture ,showcases various species in distinct styles.
A number of local species like Ashwattha, (Ficus Religiosa) Banyan, Paikur and Laikur are another feature of the exhibition. Chinese and Japanese Buddhists regard the Ashwattha as a sacred tree since Buddha is believed to have attained nirvana under its canopy. Other myths ranging from Behula to Shakuntala inevitably have a conspicuous link with such trees.
Bonsai artiste Sarwar Murshed has exquisitely shaped such an Ashwattha tree. Murshed, also the President of Rajshahi Bonsai and a member of BBS has an in-depth practical knowledge of this art form. His other works are also worthy of mention.
Borhan Hossain Kakul's “China Bot” (rain forest in style) is another attraction. A number of aerial roots of the tree embedded in the vase signify the unkempt beauty of bonsai.
Publication secretary of BBS Irene Parveen's “Fucentie” (Root-over Rock) and “Boxwood” (Informal Upright) epitomise the simple beauty of bonsai art.
Other works by Dr. Selima Ahmed, Rosy Kuddus, Mamunur Rashid, Shahzadi Sultana, Tutu, Kohinur Rahman and Wahid Uddin Milu are commendable.
The exhibition is open from 10am to 8 pm everyday and will end today.
Home Stone Limited is the sponsor of the exhibition.
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