A Quarter Century of Living Art at the Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt
For twenty‑five years, the Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt (BGLM), Oakland, California, has stood as a testament to patience, artistry, and community. Like the trees it houses, the garden has grown slowly and intentionally shaped by many hands, guided by shared vision, and rooted in a deep respect for the ancient art of bonsai.
BGLM is a volunteer‑driven nonprofit organization supported entirely through donations and grants.
The anniversary book captures years in the making. It is a story of transformation: of trees, of people, and of a public space that has become one of the most cherished bonsai collections in the United States.
The major project in 2024 was undertaken by a modest group of garden volunteers to celebrate 25 years of BGLM. Research and execution took more than 13 months, six separate photograph shoots, and certainly dedication for creating and publishing the book.
The 123-page book focuses on the history of the garden, the number of donors, supporters and volunteers, and the museum quality bonsai and suiseki viewing stones. Going back to the concept in 1974 and covering the years of construction and growth, more than 1,700 contributing individual names were published in the book.
The 25th Anniversary Book – produced in both softcover and hardcover editions – was completed right on schedule and made its debut during the BGLM’s anniversary celebration in November 2024. Its release became a highlight of the event, offering visitors and longtime supporters a tangible way to commemorate a quarter century of growth, artistry, and community.
The future of the Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt – its trees, its stones, its educational mission, and its role as a living art museum – will rest in the hands of all‑volunteer bonsai practitioners and enthusiasts who support it today. Their dedication is the garden’s greatest asset.
For information about purchasing the 25th Anniversary Book, click Purchase 25th Anniversary Book.
