Updated 1/28/01

Many climbers often complain of being too shrot to do a particular problem or move. I myself, at 6'4" tall once wished that I was only a few inches tall. There was a problem I wanted to do, but it was on a stone I could hold in my hand. As I held this rock up at eye level, I noticed a beautiful line across a dark backdrop. My imagination began to roam free as I saw a "little me" ascending this striking stone.

Unaware at the time that I was engaging in the art of Suiseki, I began collecting stones that appealed to me in this way as well as those with striking surface patterns. Until I began my job at New England Bonsai Gardens, I had no idea this had been taking place in the Far East for over 2000 years. 

Scholars and commoners alike placed beautiful stones on bases for contemplation. Some stones looked like distant mountains with waterfalls or lakes, others resembled everyday objects like houses or animals. Some ancient Buddhists revered stones as divine beings, full of all the forces of creation. Through imagination and creativity, works of art were born. Inner peace and tranquility were by-products of this silent contemplation.

The aisek or "beloved stone" has the same meaning in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. The word comes from the Kanji words ai or "beloved" and sek "stone." These natural creations are highly valued, outstanding peices can be worth thousands of dollars. The Japanese call this art form "Suiseki."

I've collected numerous stones over the years. Some were collected locally from rivers or the ocean which is one of the best places to find nice stones. I've also managed to bring back stones from all my road trips as well. My backyard is full of stones of all shapes and sizes.

Though the stones themselves remain the same, new interpretations are always coming to mind. Just as a group of climbers views a particular rock, all may see a different line. Conscious perception of nature encourages creation. Sounds a bit like bouldering to me!

Collecting Suiseki is an inexpensive hobby requiring little more than our own time and thought. For many of us contact with nature has become a necessity of life. With such art forms as Suiseki and bonsai, nature can be brought indoors to enjoy year round.

If you are interested in purchasing books on this topic, please contact New England Bonsai Gardens at www.nebonsai.com or call them at 508-883-2666, and ask for Teddi or Lee. There are also many excellent examples of both Suiseki and Gangshi at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. The stones in the exhibit are worth the trip.

"Then I turned toward my rocks and asked
would they stay with me when I am old
They could not speak yet seemed to say
that they would remain my faithful friends."
- Poet Bai Juyi (772-846)

     

Disclaimer

Bouldering is dangerous. You could be seriously injured or killed. Do not attempt any of the problems described in this web page unless you have the expertise to do so. NewEnglandBouldering.com does not assume any liability for your safety or well being.