Bankan Style: The Spiral Bonsai
Definition and Origins
The Bankan style, also known as the "spiral style" or "tortuous style," is an artistic form of bonsai that represents resilience and perseverance in the face of natural challenges. This style captures the essence of a tree that has survived in harsh conditions, often marked by strong winds or hostile environments.
Distinctive Characteristics
- Twisted Trunk: The most notable feature of the Bankan style is its heavily twisted or spiral trunk, symbolizing the tree's struggle for survival.
- Dramatic Appearance: The twisted trunk creates a dramatic visual effect, giving the impression that the tree has been shaped by natural forces like wind or erosion.
- Adaptive Branching: The branches grow in an irregular manner, often extending in unpredictable directions, reflecting the tree's adaptation to its challenging environment.
- Textured Bark: The bark of these trees is often rough and crevassed, bearing witness to their age and struggle for survival.
- Exposed Roots: In some cases, the roots may be exposed, reinforcing the impression of struggle and resilience.
Species Selection
The Bankan style is suitable for tree species that naturally grow in a twisted manner or can be trained to develop spiral trunks. Species such as junipers, certain pines, and even hardwoods like maples can be styled in this manner.
Maintenance and Cultivation Techniques
- Wiring: The formation of the spiral trunk often requires the use of advanced wiring techniques, with special care to avoid damaging the bark.
- Pruning: Pruning is used to maintain and accentuate the irregular shape of the branches, contributing to the dramatic appearance of the whole.
- Protection: Given that this style evokes a struggle against the elements, it is crucial to protect the tree from extreme conditions that could cause real damage.
Conclusion
The Bankan style is a celebration of strength and endurance in the face of adversity. These bonsais are not just representations of natural resilience, but are also metaphors for life's ability to persevere and adapt. A Bankan bonsai is a living work of art, telling a story of survival and beauty born from struggle.
