Tasmania will host the national bonsai convention for the first time in a decade when the 38th Australian National Bonsai Convention takes over Hobart’s Wrest Point Convention Centre this weekend.
The Bonsai Society of Southern Tasmania is running the event, dubbed “Southern Bonsai,” which will bring together collectors, artists and enthusiasts from around the country.
The convention will feature demonstrations from international guest Matt Reel, a bonsai artist from the Pacific North West in the United States, a region the organisers describe as “fast becoming a major centre for bonsai in the USA.”
Three national demonstrators will also take the stage.
Hobart’s Jarryd Bailey runs a bonsai nursery and garden on the northern slopes of kunanyi/Mt Wellington.
Hugh Grant, from the Blue Mountains in New South Wales, will share his knowledge of Australian bonsai.
Queensland’s Sean Hartley rounds out the lineup, having just returned from six years studying in Japan.
The exhibition will showcase works by bonsai artists from across Tasmania, featuring both native Tasmanian species and exotic varieties.
“Some will depict traditional Japanese styles whist others will capture the essence of wild Tasmania,” the organisers said.
A welcome reception and exhibition preview will be held on the Friday evening, with a convention dinner on the Saturday.
Members of the public can visit the exhibition and traders area in the Boardwalk Gallery on Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3 from 10am-5pm.
Entry costs $5, with children under 10 free.
Optional tours are also on offer.
For more information, visit their website.
