I had just begun my personal journey into the art and practice of bonsai when Priya, the owner of the Bonsai House, suggested that I attend the annual Meijer Gardens Michigan All-State Bonsai Show. In the same breath she also said, “And when your there, talk with the Master Jack
Wikle.”
That experience was a true revelation for me, but I knew no one there. So, I approached the first friendly face I saw, a nice-looking lady with grey hair and asked if she knew who Jack Wikle was. She responded, “I do, that’s my husband”, and then walked me over to Jack and
introduced me to him. After just a few minutes of conversation Jack suggested that I attend the Ann Arbor Bonsai Society meeting. I’ve always thought of that experience as fate and a sign that bonsai was something that I was meant to do.
Through the years, I (like many) have been fortunate to have had Jack as a guide and source of inspiration. Of course, as a brilliant master of the art and practice of bonsai Jack is a wealth of information and he is eager to share it, but he is also, humble, kind and patient. I will forever be grateful to have met Jack and Janine, for the knowledge Jack has shared through the years and for his friendship.
Carlos Diaz
Professor Emeritus, College for Creative Studies and Photographer