To celebrate its 20th birthday, the Bonsai Society of the Central Coast is hosting a fun day for the family with a Japanese flavour, on Saturday, September 2, in the community studios at the Gosford Regional Gallery and Arts Centre.
On the day, there will be free displays of bonsai, suiseki, ikebana, calligraphy, and silk kimonos. In addition to the displays, expert demonstrations will be provided throughout the day. Many people enjoy collecting and displaying stones, suiseki is the Japanese art of stone appreciation. Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arranging that emphasizes form and balance.
Bonsai tending and calligraphy are better known Japanese art forms, and aikido is a Japanese Marital art. The Edogawa Commemorative gardens are always a joy to explore, but watch out for the Anime actors having fun in the gardens in the afternoon. Children will enjoy having a photograph taken with their favourite anime (Japanese cartoon) character or a group photo with all the anime actors. While exploring the gardens you can also enjoy the sculptures by Japanese artist, Mr Koichi Ishino.
Children have the opportunity to make a bonsai to take home, and dress up in traditional Japanese costume to be photographed, watch members of the community demonstrate Japanese calligraphy and perhaps take home a personalised piece to treasure.
Source: Media release, Jul 26 Denise Allen, Bonsai Society of the Central Coast