I’ve been a bit remiss over the past few weeks – either that or I’ve had a major senior moment and forgotten to post. Actually it’s been a hectic fortnight and I just haven’t had much chance to sit own and ramble away on here. So, let’s make up for that now.

The highlight of the past couple of weeks has been the Joy of Bonsai event held in The Pavilion in Bath over the weekend of March 20th and 21st. It was organised by one of British bonsai’s superstars – the Blessed Dan Barton – through the offices of ABBA. Now, at this point several of you will be wondering what a 70s Swedish pop band have to do with bonsai. Others will already be half way into the chorus of Waterloo, and anyone under about 25 will be wondering what the hell I’m going on about. (go Google) This particular ABBA is in fact the Association of British Bonsai Artists – a fact I drop in merely to end the confusion. Anyway, the event was interesting – oh there’s that word that means anything and everything. I have not been to a JofB before so didn’t know what to expect. As it transpired it was a bonsai “gathering” rather than a straight exhibition and this was okay. I have heard grumblings about it being too much of a “trade show” – funnily enough from people who seemed to be leaving laden down with purchases! The highlight of the event however had to be the Bonsai Innovations section, featuring some very interesting and unusual exhibits, some of which I adored as art and bonsai, and some of which I adored as art. Particuarly spectacular for me was John Pitt’s exhibit pictured here:

A number of people will only know John as a bonsai potter, and one of the great things about this show was that it gave him the chance to let people see just how great a bonsai artist he is too.

But if you want WOW factor how about this?

A stunning tree I hear you say, and indeed so it would be considered by most people with any taste and discernment. That is, if tree it indeed was. But it isn’t. Before I get accused of talking in taradiddles, let me explain. The “tree” is fake. Totally. Completely. Except the pot and the moss on the surface. It is made of modelling clay (trunk) and plastic (foliage). Gobsmacking! It took the artist, Paul Finch, about a year to make I believe. I can see why.

Back tomorrow to complete this.