By Joe Grande

 

This stone has a sentimental attachment. My friend James Stadnick, a professional photographer whose work is in the National Gallery of Canada, was an avid fisher. Before he passed from pancreatic cancer, he went to Mississippi for one last chance to fish for crappies. He was also a subscriber to BCI Bonsai and Stone Appreciation Magazine and was aware of viewing stones. Jim was a quick learner and a keen observer. When he came back from his trip, he brought back two petrified wood stones and gave me one. I think he bought them in Flora, MS.

 

The stone sat on my shelf for a few years lying on its side. After I was exposed to VSANA’s contemporary viewing stone aesthetic, I saw an opportunity to present this petrified wood stone in a non-traditional manner.

 

The feeling I get from this composition is one of a steadfast stance countering dynamic forces. This is much like Jim’s battle with cancer. He became an expert on his condition, and against all odds, was able to prolong his life by almost six years.

 

The wedge base is cherrywood and is currently a natural finish. This display is 11 cm wide. 10.5 cm tall, and 7 cm deep.