I participated in an Exhibit at the Pacific Bonsai Museum, titled “Natives”. This exhibit featured trees from the Pacific Bonsai Museum and bonsai artists, Scott Elser, Michael Hagedorn, Randy Knight, Ryan Neil and Dan Robinson; ceramicist, Victoria Chamberlain; visual artist, Iuna Tinta; and myself. I created kusamono accent plants for the bonsai.

As I create my Kusamono I am reminded of the beauty I see in nature. I love the challenge of trying to create small accent plant displays that show the huge variety of habitats and plants that are unique and beautiful in each of them. In contrast to bonsai which is one plant, I love the creativity of selecting from the variety of native plants that grow in nature to create a display that is a work of art in itself but also compliments and enhances our enjoyment of bonsai displays.

In planning kusamono, I first identify the bonsai species and the environment in which that plant grows. Then, I research plants growing in that environment that may pair with the bonsai. Finally, I look for a pot that complements and enhances the plant arrangement.

The “Natives” exhibit will continue until October 8, 2017. Come and enjoy the exhibit to see the harmony of nature.