The Sakkafu-ten is a chance for bonsai Masters to be recognized for their artistic work
Held annually, the Sakkafu-ten is the largest professionals-only exhibition in the bonsai calendar. In every other exhibition, the name of the owner of the tree is displayed prominently while the professional who may look after and work on it every day of the year is not recognized. For many in the West this is a concept that is difficult to understand, but it works very well for the artists and their patrons. The Sakkafu-ten, however, is a chance for the professional artists to be recognised with various different awards made. The judging takes place in mid-October and the exhibition is held at the Green Club in Tokyo in December.
Best chuhin: Chojubai
Minister for the Environment Award
Bonsai by: Tomoya Nishikawa (Shirasagi-en)
This well known and loved white flowering chojubai (Japanese flowering quince) was awarded the Kokufu-sho prize at the 80th Kokufu-ten. Ten years before it was in a state of near death and in very poor shape. However, Mr Nishikawa nursed it back to health. Now, a further six years since the Kokufu Award, the branch structure has improved and it is a sight to behold.
Best deciduous: Prunus mume
Minister of Agriculture award
Bonsai by: Shoichi Imai (Suikoen)
Mr Imai first obtained this tree 7 to 8 years ago. It was unhealthy and had very short branches after some years of neglect. After the tree had regained strength, the apex was shortened and over several months the trunk severely bent over using a jack. It has been quite a transformation.
Best creative tree: Five needle pine on rock
Chairman’s Award
Bonsai by: Minoru Akiyama (Akiyama-en)
A quirky tree with character, this connected root clump style has been accentuated by the sensitive and skilful planting on rock. The natural feel of the tree has been expertly captured in the loose, but not untidy arrangement of the branches and foliage pads. Mr Akiyama, a previous winner of the Prime Minister’s Award, is better known for his more orthodox style with junipers and satsuki, so this reveals a new side to his talents.
Shohin, its all about balance
Mr. Suzuki: ‘Displaying small bonsai is tricky, isn’t it? That’s part of what makes it so interesting, though. And when you’re on your own, your taste tends to become rather one-sided. When I first started out, I simply bought trees I liked, but at one point Nobu-san pointed something out to me and I realised I was becoming a bit one-sided. I thought I was keeping the balance of species in mind, as my aim was to display them, but when I actually lined them up, I realised they all had a very similar feel to them. I suppose I have a certain preference for tree shapes and atmosphere. I wouldn’t have noticed it on my own. I’m sure I’ll still be biased in the future.
