How to put on a bonsai show

Step-by-step instructions for putting on a bonsai exhibit, bonsai sold separately.

1) Get a truck for the supplies.

One truck packed – Boon’s happy

2) Get another truck for the trees.

John and I carefully pack the truck

3) Set up the backdrops.

John, Jeff and Vince are champs at setting up backdrops

4) Apply table dressing.

Sam, Marie, Scott, and Janet spread out the felt – light blue, like Kokufu

Backdrops ready to go

5) Gather stands.

We tend to bring more than we need – it helps setting up the displays

6) Set up the displays.

We usually begin with the biggest trees, the stands make good placeholders

Here a fine art/suiseki display is taking shape complements of Mas Nakajima

We keep the trees off to one side until we’re ready for them

We protect the stands by applying felt to pot feet

Accents complete the display

7) Judge the show.

We divide the trees into like groups and vote for the winners

It’s a good learning exercise – and fun!

8) Place the awards.

Members’ Choice Award – small deciduous & broadleaf

9) Point a lot.

Jim rallies the troops

10) Ponder the finer points of display.

The serious business of bonsai

11) Hold an auction.

Tom holding a juniper for sale

Our barker extraordinaire, Chris Johnston

12) Shoot the show.

Taking good pictures makes a big difference – we owe Eric great thanks for managing this for us

That covers the basics. For bonus points, try:

• printing programs
• hosting a vendor area
• encouraging club sales
• serving tea and snacks
• breaking even

When it’s all over, put everything back in its place.