May 5, 2020
Dear Supporters of the National Bonsai Foundation,
We hope this message finds you and your family healthy and safe.
On this Giving Tuesday, as America focuses its attention on supporting charitable and social organizations, we wanted to reach out and thank you for your previous support. In times like these, we pause to reflect and appreciate your generosity and the tranquility that you have helped create here at the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum.
Like you, those of us at the National Bonsai Foundation are adjusting to how the coronavirus pandemic has transformed our lives and our work. Gratefully, nature and art are still ours to enjoy, and bonsai is a deep and inspiring source of tranquility as we weather this crisis together.
The National Bonsai & Penjing Museum’s doors may be temporarily closed, but our mission continues. Here are some updates on the Museum and NBF from these last few weeks:
A small team of Museum staff led by Curator Michael James is working to care for all the bonsai—while practicing proper social distancing. We’re especially appreciative of their efforts to keep these invaluable trees thriving this spring. Take a virtual stroll through the Museum’s extraordinary collections.
The world-famous Yamaki Pine was repotted, keeping healthy this nearly 400-year-old bonsai that has survived generations of travel and travesty including the 1945 bombing of Hiroshima. Learn how it was done.
We have taken steps toward much-needed capital improvements that will secure our natural treasures for generations to come while also positioning the Museum as an even greater draw for visitors to the U.S. National Arboretum. Look for more information on the new master plan for the Museum, coming soon.
NBF is further embracing digital media to engage our supporters and visitors. Through our blog, Facebook, and Instagram we have curated stunning photo and video content for you to enjoy from home.
Please also plan to join us for World Bonsai Day on Saturday, May 9! In lieu of our usual Museum events, we’re moving the celebration online so people all over the world can celebrate the art of bonsai together. Visit our homepage and follow #WorldBonsaiDay on social media for never-before-seen articles, videos, and photos from NBF.
On behalf of our Board of Directors and staff, thank you for all you have done with us and for us. We also extend appreciation to all those working on the front lines during this challenging time.
We look forward to the day when the Museum can re-open and we can catch up with you in person. Be well.
Felix Laughlin Jack Sustic
Co-President Co-President
If you'd like to support our efforts, you can make a donation here. Thank you.