Japanese Cultural Exchange From March 14–16
The Japanese Cultural Exchange will take place from March 14th to 16th, a “a one-of-a-kind cultural experience bringing world-class Bonsai, Sake, and Japanese traditions to Bermuda.”
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Society of Arts [BSoA] is gearing up for a major milestone as it approaches its 75th anniversary in 2027. In anticipation of this historic occasion, BSoA is launching a two-year series of special events and exhibitions to highlight its rich legacy and continued impact on Bermuda’s arts community. The first of these celebrations kicks off with an extraordinary three-day cultural event, The Japanese Cultural Exchange, taking place from March 14th to 16th, 2025.
“This immersive experience will bring the intricate beauty of Japanese artistry to Bermuda, featuring over 80 world-class Bonsai trees, an exclusive Sake Samurai tasting, and a special guest appearance by the renowned Bonsai master, Peter Chan. As the first event in BSoA’s journey toward its 75th year, it reflects the gallery’s dedication to embracing diverse artistic traditions while celebrating its own deep-rooted history.
“The event officially opens on Friday, March 14, when visitors will step into a Japanese-inspired exhibition at BSoA, showcasing over 80 Bonsai trees cultivated in Bermuda by Anthony Hansen of Bonsai Garden Design.
“Guests will have the opportunity to bid on a stunning Bonsai masterpiece in a silent auction, while enjoying specialty beverages, including the locally brewed Japanese rice lager “Miyagi” from Bermuda Craft Brewery and Japanese spirits and Bonsai-inspired cocktails from Goslings Bar. This free-admission event provides the perfect introduction to a weekend of cultural exploration.
“On Saturday, March 15, attendees will have the rare opportunity to take part in The Sake Samurai Experience, an exclusive tasting event led by Roger Dagorn, a Master Sommelier and one of only eight non-Japanese individuals honored with the prestigious title of Sake Samurai. Dagorn will guide guests through a five-course sake tasting, perfectly paired with gourmet canapés prepared by Fourways Inn. This intimate, ticketed experience is limited to just 88 guests, with tickets available for $175 per person.
“The final day, Sunday, March 16, marks the launch of the Bermuda Bonsai Society and features a special appearance by Peter Chan, one of the world’s most celebrated Bonsai artists. Peter, a 21-time Chelsea Flower Show gold medalist, will present a live Bonsai demonstration, offering insight into his expert techniques. Guests will also have the opportunity to take a guided tour of the Bonsai exhibition with curator Anthony Hansen, and the first 30 members to join the Bermuda Bonsai Society will receive a signed copy of Chan’s book, Bonsai Masterclass. Admission is free, but registration is required via bonsaigardendesign.com.
“Peter Chan, founder of Herons Bonsai, has educated thousands worldwide on the art of Bonsai through his books and popular YouTube channel, which has amassed over 480,000 subscribers. Roger Dagorn, a James Beard Award-winning sommelier, is regarded as one of the world’s foremost experts in sake and wine pairings, with accolades including The Krug Champagne Lifetime Achievement Award.
“As BSoA begins its countdown to 75 years as Bermuda’s premier arts hub, the gallery is committed to celebrating its past while shaping the future of the island’s artistic community. Over the next two years, BSoA will host a series of exhibitions, cultural collaborations, and special events, engaging artists, patrons, and the wider public in honoring the gallery’s extraordinary legacy.
“Join us in this exciting journey toward BSoA’s 75th anniversary by attending The Japanese Cultural Exchange—a one-of-a-kind cultural experience bringing world-class Bonsai, Sake, and Japanese traditions to Bermuda.
“For more information and to register for events, visit bonsaigardendesign.com or www.bsoa.bm.”
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