The Cherry Blossom (Sakura), a great symbol of impermanence, has a prominent place in Japanese culture. Its beauty and symbolism is celebrated with passion nationwide. The fleeting flowering period of the trees is believed to exemplify the transient nature of life. The bloom only lasts one or two weeks before all the petals float to the ground. It's a beautiful sight. In Toronto, this usually happens in Spring, around mid-April. We should really borrow from this Japanese festivity and celebrate this amazing season too! As an intercity artistic initiative, we are hoping to bring a new tradition to Toronto - a celebration of nature and art in the midst of these magnificent flora. Let's decide on the details of an annual event where we can celebrate our camaraderie and appreciate international legacies like this one.
Through the Sakura Project, the Japanese Embassy transplants Cherry Blossom trees throughout the GTA. You may have noticed these beauties at locations like High Park, Lakeshore District, Exhibition Place and The University of Toronto. With your help, we can support this project and bring more of these inspirational beauties to Toronto.
Wouldn't it be terrific to be the reason why you see more Sakuras in the city? These unique trees with their feathery petals are elegant and exquisite. Not only are they stunning curiosities to the eye but they also play a vital role in the urban community. Yes, beyond their natural capacity to inspire, they are of course another means for cleaner air and more oxygen. Sometimes Toronto can seem like a polluted concrete jungle with few signs of nature. We can do little things to change that! For one, we can bring Sakuras to the dullest, most lifeless spots around town.
Sakuras add to the healthy variety of species within our public spaces, prevent soil erosion and act as carbon sinks. In essence, by donating to this project, you will be contributing toward the appreciation and conservation of these surreal rarities that bring peace and tranquility to any scene. Let's plant more of these ethereal trees to proactively shape our environment while lifting people's spirits. Let's plant magnificent beauties that make you dream a little as you pass them by. As the world becomes a better place, be a part of that movement forward and pick Toronto up with a bit of seasoning, some pink and white flavor to enthuse those who let it in.
In using this platform however, I have to clarify that this is a small and short-term project that of course doesn't claim to be of weighty consequence in comparison to world causes dedicated to poverty or education etc. but if you believe that the gap between art and life can be further sealed in Toronto, please become a voter of this slow and steady assignment making nature-lovers out of city dwellers who have become uninspired and tired. I encourage you to vote only if you acknowledge that your vote will make a difference and if you can follow through to encourage traditions from wherever nature is advanced. Starting with a Toronto Sakura Spring Party, let's globalize customs from around the world that celebrate nature. Do you want to be a part of a small local artistic endeavor in Toronto?
All contibutions will be donated to the Sakura Project to assist them as they do the legwork. Each donation made will be individualized at this site (name and donation amount).As we communicate with the Sakura Project Coordinator at the Consulate-General of Japan in Toronto, we will update you on the new public planting sites.
Walking by a Sakura Tree in Toronto? Be the reason.
Your support is really appreciated.