In trying to fill a need in the bonsai show scene within the U.K., during 2009, we instigated the ‘Best of British Bonsai’, a competitive show which endeavoured to seek out some of the wonderful bonsai that we know existed around this country as well as demonstrators and a trade fair.
We succeeded and some excellent and, in some instances, ‘never-before-seen’ trees were exhibited. This first event, successful as it was, did however have its weaknesses and so, for the second ‘Best of British Bonsai’ for 2011, we set out to remedy these.
Our view is that such an event, held in early April this year, went a long way in achieving our aims but we set our sights at perfection and we recognise that we are not quite there yet. Over the two days, in excess of 2,000 people came and viewed the event.
Two areas where changes were put into place concerned a) the main demonstrators, Salvatore Liporace and Enrico Savini who, for this year’s event were placed in two marquees which proved far more popular compared to the smaller rooms used in 2009 and b) our providing outside caterers in the form of a hog roast to supplement the Garden’s catering facilities.
What might have been considered a ‘one-off’ event back in 2009 has, together with ‘Best of British Bonsai 2011’, developed a momentum of its own and it is clear from numerous comments made that there is a demand for this to continue. So to those who attended, please let us have ideas on how you feel ‘Best of British Bonsai’ might be further improved. We do not just want to rest on our laurels – we wish to get it right for 2013. It is intended to publish an exhibition book later this year.
Malcolm and Kath Hughes.
This website will be updated as further details become available.
