ARTIST STATEMENT
Potensai derives from the traditional Chinese practice of Bonsai plants, with the goal to create a representation of nature in the form of a tree. ‘Potensai’ meaning ‘bonsai-in-training’; which points towards a future, matured creation. This growth builds upon what was previously present, and provides new, fruitful experiences.
My past definitions of home are represented by the hanging roots of the wire Bonsai. These concepts are not just ‘decayed’ and forgotten, but still portray a root system that is grown upon. The two trunks represent the aspects which I associate with home; family and friends, which grow one interconnected canopy.
ARTWORK PROCESS
The wire was twisted using pliers into the Bonsai tree design, then the pink and gold beads were twisted by hand onto the ends of the wire and bunched up to created the cherry blossoms. The roots were twisted around the contour of the rock and personal note tags were attached to the ends of roots. A wooden dowel tripod was made using twine for the tripod with a lashing technique, including an additional length of twine around the base to prevent the legs from slipping.
