In memory of Andrew Pearson, Stone Monkey Ceramics
E C H O E S O F T R A D I T I O N ,
E X P R E S S I O N S O F M O D E R N A R T I S T R Y
E X P R E S S I O N S O F M O D E R N A R T I S T R Y
This category explores the profound connection between a modern day artist's personal identity and the traditional techniques and practices of bonsai ceramics that have existed for centuries. 'Echoes of Tradition' honors the origins of bonsai ceramics and its deep roots in Asian techniques and practices. In contrast, "Expressions of Modern Artistry" highlights how the artist weaves their own identity and artistic sensibilities—whether shaped by regional, cultural, ecological, or aesthetic influences—into their work.
Artists are encouraged to innovate, blending personal expression with tradition to create something entirely their own. This category celebrates the dynamic interplay between honoring traditional practices and telling a unique, individual story through the medium of bonsai ceramics.
Artists are encouraged to innovate, blending personal expression with tradition to create something entirely their own. This category celebrates the dynamic interplay between honoring traditional practices and telling a unique, individual story through the medium of bonsai ceramics.
T H E C H A L L E N G E
Your objective is to create a ceramic bonsai pot that honors the ancient techniques and practices of bonsai ceramics while infusing your personal artistic identity. Your work should reflect the deep roots of Asian bonsai ceramic traditions, celebrating the timeless craftsmanship that has shaped this art form for centuries.
As you craft your piece, blend traditional methods with your own unique cultural, regional, ecological, or aesthetic influences. Let your individuality emerge through the design, balancing respect for traditional techniques with your personal expression. This is your opportunity to create something that both honors the past and highlights your unique vision.
In addition to your pot, share the story or inspiration behind your work. Whether it's a personal connection, a cultural influence, or an experience that shaped your design, we invite you to tell us what drives your creative process.
Your submission must be a handmade ceramic pot, created using one of the traditional build methods: slab, coil, carved, slip cast*, or wheel thrown. It must also conform to traditional bonsai styles, such as oval, round, rectangular, mokko, cascade, semi-cascade, nanban, etc.
As you craft your piece, blend traditional methods with your own unique cultural, regional, ecological, or aesthetic influences. Let your individuality emerge through the design, balancing respect for traditional techniques with your personal expression. This is your opportunity to create something that both honors the past and highlights your unique vision.
In addition to your pot, share the story or inspiration behind your work. Whether it's a personal connection, a cultural influence, or an experience that shaped your design, we invite you to tell us what drives your creative process.
Your submission must be a handmade ceramic pot, created using one of the traditional build methods: slab, coil, carved, slip cast*, or wheel thrown. It must also conform to traditional bonsai styles, such as oval, round, rectangular, mokko, cascade, semi-cascade, nanban, etc.
*Disclosure of method of creation is required. Molds of slip cast pots are required to be made by the artist within the last two years.
THE TRADITIONAL CATEGORIES ARE
T R A D I T I O N A L G L A Z E D
T R A D I T I O N A L U N G L A Z E D
Potters will have the ability to select the category in which their work is classified.
"The modernity of yesterday is the tradition of today, and the modernity of today will be tradition tomorrow."
- Jose Andres
- Jose Andres
For Learning Seminars tickets, lodging, transportation, merchandise, and all other event information, please visit the American Bonsai Society website.
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