Dancers – A Poem in Two Trunks

Botanical Name: Carpinus (Carpinus japonica or turczaninovii, likely)

Common Name: Hornbeam – Japanese or Korean

Tree Name: Dancers

Story of the Tree

This twin-trunk Hornbeam was acquired from a Kusamura Bonsai Club show in 2019, shortly after Katherine joined the club.

The tree’s delicate, slender branches and flowing movement reminded her of a pair of dancers in motion—graceful, balanced, and subtly connected—giving rise to its name, Dancers.

It is planted in a pot by Vicky Chamberlin, whose ceramics pair beautifully with deciduous species. The tree’s evolving design is shaped with guidance and encouragement from Steve Iwaki, whose coaching continues to influence its direction.

Still in development, Dancers invites viewers to see not just two trunks, but a duet—an expression of movement, partnership, and quiet growth.

Exhibited by: Katherine