June 2025 Newsletter
Cape Fear Bonsai Society 14 June 2025 Exhibition
Exciting Exhibit Announcement!
We are thrilled to announce our upcoming Bonsai Exhibition taking place on Saturday, June 14 at the New Hanover County Arboretum. The Exhibition will open at 10 am and will continue to 4 pm. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase our members' stunning trees and to engage with the local community. We invite all members to contribute their best bonsai for display. Let’s come together to celebrate our passion! Members should drop off their trees at the Arboretum promptly between 10-11 pm. Exhibitors must pick up trees on Saturday promptly after the show ends at 4 PM
Ken Hallatt of Carolina Bonsai will have a variety of tools, wire, ceramic containers, soils, and more available for purchase. As an expert in the field, Ken can guide you in selecting what you need to start your bonsai journey or assist you with more advanced purchases as you progress. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, Ken is here to help ensure you have the right materials to nurture your bonsai creations.
Join us for an exciting opportunity to learn from Ken Duncan of South Carolina, an expert grower of bonsai material. Ken will assist you in selecting your very own bonsai starter material, tailored to thrive in our area. He will be on hand to answer any questions you may have about the various trees he grows and their suitability for local conditions. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just starting your bonsai journey, Ken’s expertise will help you make informed choices for your bonsai garden. Don't miss the chance to gain valuable insights and kickstart your bonsai adventure!
Bonsai Exhibitor Information
Our exhibition will feature trees from all members, regardless of experience level. We encourage each of you to bring at least one of your trees to showcase. If you have several trees, please let us know, as we would love to consider them for display. Our goal is to present a diverse selection of species and styles, highlighting the talent and creativity within our community. We are asking and strongly encouraging those members that can put together a display to do so!
Please provide the following details for each exhibitor to ensure accurate labeling and listing for the upcoming exhibition:
Tree Species: Specify the exact species name of the bonsai tree being exhibited.
Artist's Name: Full name of the bonsai artist responsible for the tree. (we will not be displaying Exhibitors names publicly)
Years of Experience: Indicate the number of years the artist has been working with bonsai.
Special information: (Optional) do you have a display with accent pieces or scrolls that you would like to display. What is the size of the bonsai and how much area would it require to display. each section is approx. 3’ wide
Collecting this information promptly will help us create a well-organized display for all attendees. Thank you for your cooperation! Email to cfbs.ilm@gmail.com ASAP please
Drop-off and Pick up of Trees:
Trees must be dropped off at the Arboretum on Friday from 10 AM to 11 AM. You must be prepared to take your tree and display down promptly after 4 PM. If you plan on making a display with your tree, you will be required to set up and take down the display.
Selection and Awards
Bonsai trees will be selected based on the following criteria:
Space Availability: Each member has the opportunity to display at least one tree. This ensures that every member can properly show their bonsai without overcrowding.
Quality of Trees: Selected trees must exhibit good health and vitality. The selection committee will evaluate each tree's overall condition, including the quality of leaves, bark, and roots.
Diversity of Species or Styles: To create a varied and interesting collection, the committee will consider a range of species and styles. This diversity promotes a richer experience for all members and encourages learning about different bonsai techniques and care requirements.
The selection committee will finalize the choices based on these criteria.
Awards will be presented in several categories to recognize the diverse talents and artistry within our Bonsai community. Categories include Best Small, Medium and Large Trees, Best Novice tree, Owen O’Neill Memorial Award, and Presidents choice. All attending will be asked to vote for peoples choice. Bonsai society members will be eligible to vote for members choice Award. Ken Hallatt and Ken Duncan will be the jurors for the awards.
In addition, we are excited to introduce a Novice Award to celebrate newcomers who exhibit exceptional promise and creativity in their work. This award aims to encourage and inspire those just beginning their Bonsai journey.
We look forward to honoring these wonderful trees and their caretakers during our upcoming event. Every entry will reflect the dedication and passion that make our club so special!
We are reaching out for 5-7 enthusiastic volunteers to assist with the setup and takedown of our bonsai exhibition displays. Your generosity in helping the club will ensure we have the best exhibition possible. If you're available to lend a hand, please let us know! Thank you for your support. please email cfbs.ilm@gmail.com to volunteer!