Episode II
Spires of subalpine firs balance verdant growth and death by desiccation. As natives to the subalpine forest of Olympic National Park, these trees exist in a flux of extremes, where harsh winters and heavy snow beget the summer’s most delicate flora–a give and take of the elements that defines the life that thrives here.
In the quiet moments of reflection, when observation becomes awe, and that awe instills respect, we understand the connection between the peace we find within, and the desire to outwardly express that understanding of peace through a lifestyle of respect toward our planet and fellow beings.
Bonsai creates a timeless relationship between human and tree that enhances our comprehension and relationship with nature. Mirai in the Wild is an original series that follows artist and bonsai professional Ryan Neil as he journeys to the native landscapes of endangered, ancient and significant trees. Embedded in the environment, he processes and understands the elements in the way that the tree does–interpreting and expressing the aesthetic of nature through the art of bonsai.
Interview featuring the words of Oren Lyons, faithkeeper of the Turtle Clan, Onondaga Council of Chiefs, Haudenosaunee (Six Nations Iroquois Confederacy).
Oren Lyons on the Indigenous View of the World interview audio courtesy of TreeTV / K2K Need to Know. To see the full interview with Oren Lyons, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbwSwUMNyPU
Olympic soundscape sketches courtesy of Joshua Sadinsky: https://joshuasadinsky.com/olympic