It is about looking at something ordinary as nature
We started ‘The Bonsai Project’ in 2009 out of fascination for for the experience of nature and the cultivation of our natural environment. Bonsai, as you probably know, are man-made trees cultivated in pots. This practice is more than two thousand years old and originated in China. Since then, it developed into an art form and has spread over the world. Many enthusiasts all over the world make and keep bonsai. Really understanding bonsai involves closely observing one’s natural environment and using it as inspiration.
As photographers we are fascinated by the condensed experience of nature these magical trees offer us. We like to think that bonsai is the most unnatural nature that exists But behind that beauty, we are looking for a deeper understanding of what cultivating nature can offer us: a sense of time, respect, reflection and care for things around us. Bonsai enthusiasts seem to have recognized this in their work. There is a saying by a famous bonsai-master:
“Life becomes more meaningful from loving care of these plants, from which we learn the essence and dignity of life. Those who love bonsai find themselves drawn and bound together in great mutual understanding, tolerance and friendship.”
On a very small scale, this happens within the bonsai culture. But it happens in many different ways, everywhere in the world.
We created this website to offer you an insight in our research. As documentary photographers, we are interested in combining different sorts of research strategies. Here we will post articles on our progress, interviews, and future plans.
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The Bonsai Project is made possible by Fonds BKVB and our Supporters.
