(c) by Sandra I. Smith
May not be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the author
Looking for something new to do? Something out of the ordinary? Something inexpensive and relaxing? Maybe its time to collect suiseki (soo-ee-seck-ee).
Suiseki, also called "viewing stones," are stones that, in their natural form, resemble landscapes. Other than perhaps grinding off the bottoms so that they may be displayed, suiseki are not altered in any way by humans. Collectors aren't even allowed to machine clean or polish their treasures--instead each stone is lovingly hand-rubbed to bring out its patina.
Although most collectors prefer miniature landscape scenes, some look for stones that resemble animals, people, plants, or objects such as boats or buildings. Others search for intriguing patterns. Landscape stones include any natural scenery, such as mountains or waterfalls.
Although suiseki is a respected art in itself, you'll often see it displayed with bonsai, which are miniature trees. Both began in Japan centuries ago, and have since spread to nearly every country.
Collecting suiseki is easy. Simply look for weathered stones in colors and shapes that you find appealing. The banks of rivers and streams are ideal, however suiseki can be found anywhere you find rocks. Household detergents and a stiff brush are generally all that's needed to clean stones.
Displays can be easy or elegant, ranging from a plain wood platform to arrangements of earth, moss, and other natural substances around the base of the stone. Most informal collectors place their displays in their living rooms or patios, in keeping with the philosophy that part of suiseki is sharing the experience.
The next time you're outside, don't just kick that rock out of your way--pick it up and look carefully at it. Is that water plunging down a distant mountain you see in its swirls? Or maybe a bridge spanning a tumbling stream, with ferns growing luxuriantly on either end? Only your imagination limits you in suiseki. And even if it turns out to be an ordinary rock, your quiet contemplation of its potential has allowed you to leave the workaday world behind for a few minutes. Whether you toss it or keep it, you'll find yourself refreshed. That's the real joy of suiseki.
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