Modesto bonsai enthusiasts set to showcase their artform

The often calming hobby of cultivating and sculpting trees and plants into miniature versions of themselves is rooted in an ancient art form. At the Modesto Bonsai Club’s annual show this weekend, members will offer the knowledge, wares and fruits of their hobby.

The group’s 35th annual Bonsai Show & Exhibit will be held Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 8-9, at the Modesto Hotel. Along with demonstrations, exhibits and sales, the event will showcase expert advice on the art of bonsai – pronounced “bone-sigh.”

“Our members will be in attendance to answer any questions you have regarding the living art of bonsai,” club President Peter Camarena said in an email interview. “Maybe it is something about an exhibited tree or a tree you have at home. (Participants can) learn about the techniques, tools, pots, maintenance and the artistic side (of bonsai).”

Among those offering their expertise will be Sam Adina, the club’s sensei (the Japanese word for teacher or instructor). Adina has been guiding the Modesto club for the past decade and will offer demonstrations both days at the show beginning at 1 p.m. Adina’s information will be valuable, Camarena said, adding the sensei will be among the guest artists at this year’s Golden State Bonsai Federation convention to be held in Sacramento on Oct. 26-30.

Bonsai is an art form that stems from ancient Asian culture, originating in China and developed by the Japanese. In the 13th century, the Japanese collected and potted wild trees that had been dwarfed by nature. But bonsai trees actually are not dwarf species and will rise to several feet, even up to 100 feet tall, if left to grow in their natural state.

The art of bonsai was introduced in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Expert help, once found only in Japan and China, today is readily available at bonsai clubs and shops around the world. The American Bonsai Society lists clubs across the United States and Canada, including the Modesto group.

The Modesto Bonsai Club began almost 50 years ago with a few bonsai enthusiasts who met at their homes to work together on their trees. Over the decades membership has ebbed and flowed, Camarena said, with just under 30 members now. The group meets the third Saturday each month at the Stanislaus Ag Center and includes a varied demographic.

“We have retirees, and high schoolers, men and women, IT managers and landscape architects,” Camarena said. “Everyone is welcome.”

Among the member bonsai on display will be black pines, Japanese maples, Chinese elms, junipers and a number of other varieties, he said. In addition, examples of viewing stones – or suiseki – will be displayed.

This story was originally published October 6, 2016 at 11:19 AM with the headline "Modesto bonsai enthusiasts set to showcase their artform."