Mr. Bum-young Sung, the humble and brilliant creator of Bunjae Artpia, known as the world’s most beautiful garden, shares advice on how to fully appreciate bunjae (known as bonsai in Japan):
1. Stoop and observe the tree, scanning your eyes from the bottom to the top. Enjoy the entire frame of the whole tree first, then pay attention to the detail.
- Focus on the strong, solid roots.
- Note the majestic posture of the tree, which proudly displays the many years it has lived.
- Take particular note of the spread of the branches, which represent both harmony and change.
2. The type of tree and age are important, but a true masterpiece is determined by its overall posture and beauty. Look for:
- Trees which show no trace of artificial change.
- The overall balance and harmony of the bunjae.
- The personality of the gardener in the bunjae.
3. Those who appreciate bunjae should observe basic etiquette.
- Do not touch. Too much touching tires a tree, which may lead to a loss of beauty.
- Do not ask what price it might sell for. Beauty cannot be expressed in monetary terms.
- Do not offer thoughtless criticism. Even the same person can have different views, depending on their state of mind.
— Bum-young Sung
Read more about the art of bunjae and the Korean Bunjae Artpia on Life As A Human.
Photo Credit
Mr. Sung © Vincent Ross
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how can i purchase a korean language version or mr sung’s book “the spirited garden?” i can’t find it anywhere on the internet. any help would be appreciated. thanks.
-aaron krill ( aaronkrill AT yahoo.com )