Artisans Cup – submissions now open

Show us your best, your boldest, your most beautiful and your most inspiring trees.

With this, the Artisans Cup opened submissions to the general public. For those who haven’t heard about the event, it’s a juried bonsai exhibit to be held at the Portland Art Museum September 25-27, 2015.

The event comes to us thanks to the efforts of Ryan Neil. The aim? “To introduce bonsai in a distinctly American way” in an event “featuring trees that represent the finest levels of craftsmanship and artistry” (quotes from theartisanscup.com). Some details:

The exhibition is open to submissions from every skill level of bonsai practitioner and is open to any species of tree. Tree submissions will be considered and selected for exhibit by a professional jury. Once on display, trees presented in the exhibition will be be judged by five respected and qualified bonsai professionals from the United States and abroad. Three trees will be selected by the judges for top prizes: first prize ($10,000), second prize ($5,000), third prize ($3,000).

You saw that right – cash prizes for outstanding bonsai. Who are the judges? Some of the top names among Western bonsai professionals:

• David De Groot
• Colin Lewis
• Boon Manakitivipart
• Walter Pall
• Peter Warren

How can I enter? By following the Cup’s submission guidelines.

The Artisans Cup is also looking for sponsors, volunteers and vendors. If you’re interested in attending, there’s information about that too.

How can I get my tree to the exhibit? The Artisans Cup is coordinating drivers from around the country to deliver trees to and from the event for a fee. Trucks are scheduled to leave from New York City, Atlanta and Los Angeles – details will be coordinated after accepted tree entries are finalized.

California residents may have questions about phytosanitary certificates. To address some of the basic questions, I’ve posted information from Bob Shimon on a thread on Ask Bonsai Tonight.

Submissions for exhibit trees will be accepted through June 1st – get started on your application now!