Australian Native Plants as Bonsai

Bonsai artists around Australia have been using Australian plants to create wonderful examples of the art of bonsai for many years. You may have seen the fabulous examples currently on show at the National Bonsai and Penjing Collection of Australia at the National Arboretum Canberra.

Canberra Bonsai Society and the Australian National Botanic Gardens are pleased to present the 2023 Exhibition of Australian Plants as Bonsai, which will be held in the Crosbie Morrison Building Australian national Botanic Gardens.

The art of miniature trees in pots or trays started in China around 1300 years ago (penjing) and was taken up in Japan around 900 years ago (bonsai). A bonsai or penjing tells a story of a place, culture, and life’s journey. The story comes from the artist, then is left for the viewer to contemplate. Australian trees as bonsai or penjing tell the story of an oriental tradition, interpreted in an Australian context.

The exhibition will be a display of over 30 bonsai and penjing and related items created by Canberra Bonsai Society members. The theme for 2023 is Bonsai in an Australian setting. The location of the exhibition at the Australian National Botanic Gardens is a very appropriate setting for Australian bonsai. The unique Australian landscape inspires our bonsai artists . Some artists incorporate ‘traditional’ features of bonsai and penjing when displaying their native trees. Other artists develop an Australian twist to create unique displays.

We invite you to visit the exhibition and see the range of possibilities. In addition to viewing the bonsai on display, visitors will be able to attend a daily demonstration, showcasing the techniques used, and considerations needed, when training Australian plants as bonsai and vote for their favourite bonsai. The bonsai artist whose tree has the most votes is awarded the Public Choice trophy.

EXHIBITION OPENING HOURS
9:30am – 4:00pm
Saturday and Sunday 25-26 February

LOCATION
Crosbie Morrison Building
Australian National Botanic Gardens
Clunies Ross St, Acton, ACT
Follow the signs from the carpark, Visitor Centre or café

DEMONSTRATION
2:00pm daily

ADMISSION
Adult $5.00
Concession $3.00
Accompanied children under 12 Free

MORE INFORMATION?
Email: apab@cbs.org.au or