Japan has a tradition of recreating nature in miniature, bonsai being the most famous art. In bonkei, landscapes are built on a tray using sand, rocks, moss and other materials on a base of soil. Artist arranges the scene to be seen from a certain angle, using perspective techniques to create a dynamic, realistic view. Another tray art, bonseki, uses only white sand and stones. Specialized tools shape the sand to express the subtleties of flowing water and other elements of nature.

Source: Manila Times September 18, 2023 02:26 UTC