Interview With Geoff Crowe part of the Phoenix Group in deepest Dorset Mar 2022
How did I Get started Firstly, I would like to thank Mark and Ming for giving me the opportunity to remind me of my journey through the past years of being involved with some of the most artistic (in any art form) who are able to create a replica of the tree species they may be working on - a living creation called a Bonsai. I had been practising Judo for twenty years and running a club with all that that entails. I decided that as I was not getting any younger and having a reasonable level of ability I believed it was time to move on and try to find another interest. I joined a local fledgling bonsai club where most members thought that sticks in a pot was the best arrangement. How little did we know! I spent the next five years wondering what have I joined! I was confused about soils, styles, pots, pruning, re-potting, Akadama and Kiryu until I was introduced to a "Bonsai Artist", whatever that meant, called Peter Adams. What a revelation! Information also filtered down to the members with names which seemed like Gods from afar, Dan Barton, Peter Adams and then a little later Kevin Willson who was a magician with carving. Then from the Midlands came Steve Tolley with wonderfully presented trees .It would seem about this time large displays of trees were being shown which was an education to club members. The club, whose membership was getting larger, could maybe get one of the "Stars" to have a whole day called a workshop, it was wonderful.
Who was my teacher? Peter Adams who lived in Farnham was a revelation. The ability to create wonderful living specimens was a gift from heaven and when I look back Peter was ahead of his time. His artwork was his signature. I attended many of his workshops and acquired a reasonable level of proficiency plus was able to enter some of my trees at local level shows. Further afield at Romsey I won Best tree in Show. I was thrilled that one of my trees was selected for the Birmingham Botanical Gardens Show organised by Steve Tolley. Time is my teacher and to try and have the ability to look and learn would be my mantra.
My choice of bonsai books Without a doubt the books created by Peter Adams, which are sadly out of print, they tell you all you need to know of the creative process to produce a living entity. If you can find them in charity shops you won't be disappointed.
My favourite trees When I started at the bonsai club many years ago I tried every species that existed in Christendom but over a period of time and careful selection I was pleased to work on just two varieties - Beech (Fagus Sylvestris) and Scots Pine (Pinus Sylvestres). Most of my trees are not too heavy - age takes its toll! I don't profess to be a bonsai artist, just a well-meaning amateur who appreciates all those creators of a living piece of art.
Have I experienced Bonsai abroad I have been twice to the Trophy Show in Belgium where the standard and presentation was second to none, both most enjoyable and memorable occasions with opportunities to meet bonsai artists from across Europe.
My thoughts on Bonsai I developed Parkinson's a few years ago and I am not looking for sympathy, just to explain to that superb Bonsai artist Steve Tolley that my wiring is not the best and would be better if I didn't have this affliction. On second thoughts, its still pretty rough! I've had thirty years of friendship from numerous regular attendees who enjoying the atmosphere of creativity on show. One other member of the bonsai fraternity who is an artist in his own right is the wonderful Gordon Duffett. I've been privileged to own many of his incredibly accomplished bonsai pots. The glazes, shape, style of pot and size are just visually correct. With your new pot and the tree ready for a transformation the combination takes on a new dimension. An artisan of the highest order. No more needs to be said.
In Conclusion Whilst I was writing this missive my thoughts reached out to those enthusiasts who sadly are no longer with us. In The main I enjoyed their company and contributions and overall improvement of our artistic hobby in the UK. I thankfully embraced the creative process which allows us to be part of nature. As the virus lessens we welcome a new beginning of endeavour and artistic inspiration for the future.
As a final thought What a compelling hobby where people can fashion something beautiful as a living piece of art called a bonsai and not to be corralled into group thinking, just individual creativity.