UNCW OLLI Truist Hall
680 College RoadSunday, May 16, 2027 | 1:00–5:00 PM
UNCW OLLI – Truist Hall
Free for CFBS Members
As we approach the CFBS Annual Exhibition, our fourth Tree Development Studio turns toward refinement and presentation.
For some trees, it's time to ask: Is this tree ready for the June Exhibition?
For others, the goal may simply be to make the tree look its best—to enjoy at home, share with friends, or appreciate how far it has come. And some trees will be continuing along a two- or three-year development path, with plenty of important work still ahead.
All three are successes.
We'll look at the details that begin to separate a developing tree from a refined bonsai: silhouette, branch structure, negative space, balance, surface presentation, pot and tree relationship, moss and finishing touches.
We'll also revisit trees from earlier Studio sessions, evaluate how they've responded to the work we've done, and decide what comes next.
Bring a tree you're considering for the June Exhibition and we'll look at it together.
What still needs refinement? Does wire need adjustment or removal? Is the surface ready? Does the pot complement the tree? How should it be presented? And perhaps most importantly:
Would showing it now help tell the story of this tree—or would another year of development make it better?
There is no requirement that a Studio tree be exhibition-ready. Bonsai development doesn't follow the calendar.
You don't need to have attended the previous sessions. Each Tree Development Studio stands on its own, and you're welcome to enter the series with a tree at any stage.
Bring a workshop tree, an auction find, a longtime project, a refined bonsai—or simply a tree you're trying to understand better.
We'll start wherever your tree is today.
Bring one primary bonsai or pre-bonsai, your normal tools, and your Tree Development Record and earlier photographs if you've participated in previous Studios.
If you're considering the tree for exhibition, bring anything you're already considering for its presentation—pot options, stand, accent ideas or photographs of possible combinations.
You may bring a second tree as time permits.
May should be an especially interesting Studio to observe. Join the discussions, see how trees have developed, learn what goes into refinement and presentation, and discover what separates a tree that is still developing from one that is ready to be shown.
Refine. Present. Continue developing.
Every tree is on its own timeline.
Sun, May 23, 2027 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
UNCW OLLI Truist Hall
680 College Road
The Cape Fear Bonsai Society, established in 2001, is a group that meets monthly to study and practice the art of Bonsai.
The club has an active program of training through workshops, guest speakers, and a sharing of Bonsai expertise. Membership is open to both the novice and the more experienced practitioner of Bonsai.
Find more Cape Fear Bonsai Society, Inc Events