Past Annual Exhibitions

Bringing the power of nature and art to life.

Milwaukee Bonsai Society hosted its first annual exhibit in 1970 only one year after the clubs founding. This same year MBS engaged its first master Toshio Subumaru. More artist came in the following years - John Naka, Frank Okamura, Keith Scott and others.

With an exhibition as changeable as Wisconsin's weather, MBS dedicated members provided an exhibit aimed to capture, in over two dozen art works, some awareness about nature, bonsai and draw the viewer into a collective experience. In most ways, it succeeds, and beautifully. The strength of these annual exhibitionss are their innovative approach and inclusion of Bonsai artists, of both genders, all levels, from the Milwaukee area. Each bonsai is critiqued and judged by world class Bonsai Artists.

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It is with real pleasure members share their enthusiasm with the general public at these exhibits. Check the tab below to see the winners including the people's choice award.

  • 2023
  • 2022
  • 2021
  • 2019
  • 2018
  • 2017
  • 2016
  • 2015
  • 2014
  • 2013
  • 2012
  • 2011
  • 2009
  • 2008
  • 2006

2023 Judged by Bjorn Bjorholm

AE 2023

Bjorn Bjorholm worked as an artist-in-residence at Kouka-en, making him Japan's first foreign-born working bonsai artist. During his time in Japan, Bjorn’s works were featured in the Kokufu-ten, Sakufu-ten, and Taikan-ten exhibitions, among many others world exhibitions.

Best of Show - Irene H - Bullhorn acacia - Vachellia cornigera
People's Choice - Kris Z - Cork Bark Elm - Ulmus parvifolia 'Corticosa

Advanced:
First Place: Kris Z - Cork Bark Elm
Second Place: Scott D - Ponderosa Pine
Third Place: Scott D - Rough Bark Korean Hornbeam

Intermediate:
First Place: Rick W - Satsuki azalea “Hinomaru”
Second Place: Wally V - Common Juniper
Third Place: Kevin S - Colorado Spruce Clump

Novice:
First Place: Stacy L - Engelmann Spruce
Second Place: Joe T - Bullhorn Acacia
Third Place: Rob S - Common Juniper

To see the trees check the October 2023 Newsletter

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