Monday, 28 May 2012

Celebrating Kent Bonsai - Chairman’s thoughts

At the time of writing this I’m still very tired and emotional after what was an amazing weekend but my overwhelming emotion is one of immense pride in what we achieved.   My original vision for the Show was to try and raise the profile Nationally of Bonsai in the South East of England and judging by the online exposure and the geographical spread of visitors on Sunday we have achieved this.  Although I’m not a bonsai “name” many people rallied to my call and I was luck enough to secure commitment from some of the UK’s top traders and was especially humbled to have John Armitage agree to join us.  If it was not for the support from so many different people and organisations my job would have been impossible.  My thanks to all those involved, whether frontline or backroom, is not enough for what “we” have achieved.  It might have been seen in some quarters as “my baby” but it was a group effort and congratulations to everyone involved and especially the winners.

As I now approach the end of my Chairmanship of the MBS I can look on this as a true highlight and I hope that this is the start of something very special for Bonsai in the South East.  I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the many people that have taken the time to contact me since yesterday afternoon and the many, many people who approached me on the day.  There is no “I” in "Team" and this superb event was just that, a team effort!

Monday, 21 May 2012

The Final Countdown......................

Well, the CKB Show is now under a week away and I hope that everyone is looking forward to the event. In addition to the Award categories that have been previously mentioned I can now announce that there will now be an award for Best Accent (sponsored by SUTEKI Accents) and a Certificate of Merit for an individual tree on each of the 3 Club displays.


I am also delighted to announce that our main awards sponsor and creator, Andy Pearson of Stone Monkey Ceramics, with be presenting his wonderfully crafted creations to the lucky winners. Judging the exhibits in the main hall will be 2 of our guests, John Armitage & Bryan Allbright, whilst I will be judging the Accent award and the 3 Club Chair people will be judging each other’s displays.

Here’s to a cracking day of great company and excellent bonsai. See ya there....................

Monday, 14 May 2012

The Man with a Mighty Fine Accent

This past meeting was held last Friday, due to the Bank Holiday Monday and all. Out esteemed chairman and my right honorable friend Simon did an outstanding talk on Accents, their use and how to set up and display them to their best with your bonsai. Unfortunately I could not come due to other commitments but here are a few pictures that were passed to me by Roy, thanks Roy.

See this accent here....

Simon's wonderful creations


ToTm was won by Andy and his beautiful Deshojo Maple, well done Andy

Saturday, 5 May 2012

Next Club Meeting


Simon receiving his Certificate of Merit at the BSA show this year

The next club meeting takes place on Friday 11th May, usual time and same place.
At this month's meeting we have a special guest. Our very own Simon  "Suteki" Haddon giving a talk on Accent Plantings, their use, construction and the part they play in Bonsai display. Simon will also be going over the show preperation that all members need to do to get their selected trees show worthy for the up coming CKB show on the 27th May in Lenham.


Bonsai Art of Japan Episode 3