NABF Newsletter #10

Feature #6

Naka Sketchbook Update

by Cheryl Manning

John Naka's Sketchbook is complete and currently in press. Because this book is a compilation of John Naka's sketches from around the world, the most fitting venue for its debut is the 5th World Bonsai Convention in Washington DC, May 28-31, 2005.

During demonstrations and workshops, John (the bonsai master) would transform bonsai material. But this was just one step in a development process that might take years -- and John (the teacher) wanted to enlighten his student on how the final design should look. As it was easier for him to express his ideas with a pen than with words, John (the artist) would sketch his vision of the refined bonsai, and the lucky owner would be left with a beautiful sketch for guidance and inspiration.

 
This book is much more than a group of sketches. It offers insight to John's artistic process. The range of bonsai styles and artistic approaches is diverse, and John's sensibility regarding balance and proportion is evident on every page. Each sketch was drawn for just one person -- but now we can all appreciate their artistic and educational value.

 
John was very excited about the publication of his sketches. Although he didn't live to see the book, he did get to see the sketch of him drawing that appears on the book's cover. We honor his dedication and talent with this publication. The profits from the book sales will go to the John Naka Memorial Fund. But what mattered to John most was the sharing of knowledge. We hope you find this tribute to John an inspirational addition to your bonsai library.