Читать книгу Bonsai and Penjing - Ann McClellan - Страница 9

PREFACE

In honor of the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum’s 40th anniversary, the National Bonsai Foundation is pleased to present the story of how the museum came to be, highlighting some of its treasured trees and viewing stones along with some of the people involved. We hope this book—like the museum itself—will refresh your spirit now and inspire future generations.

The National Bonsai Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1982 to sustain the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum and support the museum’s mission “to be an international center where superior bonsai and related arts are displayed and studied for the education and delight of visitors.” The National Bonsai Foundation cooperates with the U.S. National Arboretum, providing financial assistance and advice, in a private/public collaboration that makes the museum’s displays and educational programs possible, fostering intercultural friendship and understanding.

The story of how the Japanese trees, accompanied by several notable viewing stones, came to Washington is a fascinating example of the power of beauty, vision and perseverance. It is well told by the late Dr. John L. Creech, former director of the U.S. National Arboretum and the key proponent behind the gift. Major excerpts of his work, The Bonsai Saga, How the Bicentennial Collection Came to America, are included in this book as a tribute to him and to all those whose efforts made possible that extraordinary gift and the museum we enjoy today.

For me, bonsai, penjing and viewing stones are reflections of our souls, bringing nature close to each of us in a unique way. I hope Bonsai and Penjing, Ambassadors of Peace & Beauty will serve to enhance your enjoyment of these living and evolving art forms.

Felix B. Laughlin, President

National Bonsai Foundation