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.
Description
Bonsai Class Featuring Premna with Rob Kempinski
Explore the Art and Care of Bonsai
Step into the intriguing world of bonsai with a hands-on class led by renowned instructor Rob Kempinski. Designed for both budding enthusiasts and seasoned growers, this immersive experience centers around the elegant Premna and the foundational techniques of bonsai styling.
About the Class
Participants will be guided through the essentials of bonsai artistry, with a special emphasis on wiring and pruning—a method used to train and shape the tree’s branches for aesthetic harmony. Each student will receive a Premna tree, and have the opportunity to choose from three distinct sizes, allowing for tailored learning and creative expression. Through detailed instruction and demonstration, Rob Kempinski will share his expertise on how through wiring and pruning, one can gently coax a bonsai into its envisioned form, balancing horticultural health with artistic vision.
Premna: A Bonsai Gem
Premna, often called the “Headache tree,” is a tropical shrub prized in bonsai circles for its vigorous growth, small leaves, and graceful, gnarled trunks. Native to Southeast Asia, this species adapts beautifully to bonsai techniques, developing a mature appearance in relatively little time.
Key Characteristics
- Leaves: Small, ovate, and bright green, ideal for miniaturization in bonsai.
- Trunk: Naturally contorted and textured, offering an aged appearance even in youth.
- Growth: Fast-growing, responsive to pruning, and ideal for shaping and refinement.
- Flowers: Occasionally produces small, fragrant blooms.
Three Sizes of Premna Bonsai
The class offers three sizes of trees to suit different skill levels and ambitions: Please choose one when registering!
- Small: Ideal for beginners; easy to handle and fast to shape. Simple trunk lines. $75
- Medium: A balanced choice for most enthusiasts, offers more interesting trunks and design potential. $130
- Large: For those seeking a bold statement, these specimens display dramatic trunks or movement. $250
Join the Journey
Whether you’re new to bonsai or looking to refine your craft, Rob Kempinski’s class offers a welcoming environment, expert guidance, and the rare opportunity to work with the versatile Premna. Embrace the meditative art of bonsai—one branch, one wire, and one tree at a time.
Venue
The UNCW OLLI Truist Hall in Wilmington, North Carolina is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and a conducive environment for learning and networking. The venue is easily accessible and provides a comfortable setting for all attendees.
Date & Time
Sun, Aug 24, 2025 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Venue Details
UNCW OLLI Truist Hall
680 College RoadWilmington, North Carolina 28403
