2016 PNBCA Bonsai Convention - Olympia, WA - October 13-16, 2016
Lecturer: Josef Leibfried – Bonsai Ceramics (Saturday October 15, 1:00-2:30 pm)
Josef Leibfried qualifies as a bonsai early bloomer. His bonsai career kicked off with the gift of a bonsai tree for his thirteenth birthday. When it came time to leave home for college Josef chose to sell his entire tree collection, knowing the pressure of classes and studying would detract from proper care.
But he wanted to stay involved in bonsai, and decided to commit himself to the study of bonsai ceramics. He found plenty of basic information available in the U.S. about selecting pots and matching them to trees - but also noticed a lack of general knowledge in the bonsai community about the history and qualities of bonsai pottery, especially high-end and antique pots.
Josef began making connections with individuals and nurseries in Japan, hunting down information and importing fine handmade pots. He confesses to being fascinated by every aspect of bonsai ceramics, from traditional wood-burning “dragon kilns” to the evolution of glazing styles.
Josef is convinced that a greater respect for bonsai pots as works of art is integral to raising the standard of bonsai in America. He comments that with more American bonsai practitioners owning mature and highly-refined trees, interest in exemplary pots is surging - hopefully signaling the end of planting venerable and excellent trees in low quality, mass-produced pots.
Josef Leibfried’s lecture on “Bonsai Ceramics” Saturday October 15th is included in convention registration. Don’t delay, register today!
One of Josef's pots: Nakawatari era (ca. 1800-1911) antique Chinese with shirokouchi glaze
Convention hotel news: Renovation and Rebranding
The convention venue, selected almost two years ago, has been upgraded by the recent relaunch of the former Red Lion as Hotel RL, following an extensive renovation the past year. The lobby now features a coffee bar serving Victrola coffee, and comfortable new seating enhances the former reception area. Guest rooms and meeting rooms have all seen substantial upgrades.
“It was a significant change and improvement,” commented a recent guest, adding that he’d be happy to have guests and family stay at the hotel. “The tone of the place is changing to feel more modern.”
Click here to read the full article in The Olympian newspaper.
The clock is starting to tick down on the deadline for early registration. Contact Hotel RL now to secure the low convention rate of $89.00 per night plus tax (king/queen).