Hi Peter,

I'm not absolutely sure, but I think that the #75 Kokufu-ten was not in
1991, but in 2001. Also, it has been made rather clear that these prizes by
non-traditional (by Japanese standards) species were purchased. What is not
quite so clear is just how many other times awards to this or that native
Japanese tree were purchased in the past.

Aside from the corruption aspects from this show, I think it is good that
the excellent efforts of tropical bonsai artists are recognized. The idea
that Japanese species are "bonsai" while non-Japanese species are not bonsai
is utterly vacuous. What makes them bonsai is the aesthetic, not the
species nor the environment of origin.

I think that the actress in "Steel Magnolias" said it best when she said,
"If a dog gives birth to her puppies in the oven, you don't call them
biscuits."

Kind regards,
Andy Rutledge
www.bonsai365.com/ :: living bonsai every day
zone 8, Texas




----- Original Message -----
From: "p.aradi"
Regarding "traditional bonsai subjects:"
The Kokufuten is about as traditional in bonsai as anything:
it is the annual grand bonsai exhibit held in Tokyo.
In the 75th anniversary edition of the show, held in 1991,
the Grand Prize was awarded to a Ficus retusa!!!
There were also several interesting entries accepted,
including 2 Gardenia jasminoides, 2 Pyracantha angustifolia,
and a Bougainvillea glabra!!!
There were also other Ficus, Camelia japonicas and assorted
non-pines, non-junipers and non-maples. :-)
Cheers.
Peter Aradi

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