A surprising (and magical) inspiration

Korean Sea Pine at the Spirited Garden in Jeju Island, South Korea

Having  just returned from South Korea and Japan, I have been asked what inspired me the most from our trip. You may find it surprising given all the gorgeous temples, vibrant city architecture, and beautiful people that I found one of my greatest inspirations in a garden on Jeju Island. 

When we were informed by our tour guide that we would be visiting a garden, I gave it little thought. After all, I've had the good fortune to see some truly magnificent gardens. I had looked forward to  it, but I had no clue how this location would affect me. 

As it turns out, we were visiting The Spirited Garden. A world famous site that was started in 1968 by one man with a vision. ​

The sculptural quality of this dead tree is beautiful at the Spirited Garden

Bum Young Sun was 29 when he decided to make a garden out of a desolate area of scrub and volcanic stone. I was moved to tears by the masterpiece of tranquility and beauty that he crafted with his own hands.
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While walking around some 400 trees, mostly bonsai (known as bunjae in Korean), I was captivated by the twisting branches and the sense of calm that swept over me. I kept thinking that I wish that I could meet the creator of this wonderland so that I could express my gratitude. As if by magic, this elderly man appeared.  I was astonished to see Bum Young Sun tending to one of his beloved trees while donning his distinctive tattered straw sun hat. Although I didn't want to disturb him, he appeared to be just as intrigued by me as I was by him.

You may see Bum Young Sun in the distance lovingly caring for his trees

You see, he enjoys having guests from all around the world visit his garden. I didn't want to break his concentration. The garden has a meditative quality and he looked as if he was in deep thought. But as I passed, he turned to face me and looked at me with the gentlest eyes, and greeted me. After asking me where I was from, he seemed pleased with my response. He thanked me after I expressed my gratitude for his garden. In fact, we thanked one another repeatedly.

It was a wonderful encounter that I didn't expect and for which I am truly grateful. 

A beautiful combination of an azalea and evergreen​

Future paintings will undoubtedly feature some of his trees prominently. In fact, I'm already thinking about a series.

The thing that most impressed me, though, was the commitment that this one modest man had to producing something of incredible beauty to be shared with the world. 

What was the last thing that truly inspired you? Let me know in the comments. I'd love to know about it.