2016 PNBCA Bonsai Convention - Olympia, WA - October 13-16, 2016
Featured workshop: John Muth (Shimpaku Juniper) Sunday October 16th, 8:00-12:00
Home-grown would be a good word to describe John Muth: tree grower, bonsai practitioner, pottery lover and owner of Bonsai Northwest, a regional hub for trees, classes, and supplies since 1985. As a teenager John first caught the pottery bug from his mother - Bonsai Northwest founder Sharon Muth - and later developed an interest in trees.
That interest has expanded into a tree nursery where future bonsai, after starting out in pots and receiving some initial rough pruning and wiring, spend up to 10 years in the ground. Then trees are dug up and repotted for another year before being sold. “It’s a lot of waiting,” quips John. He lays out a paradox: 90% of a tree’s journey from sprout to finished bonsai is spent with the grower, yet the process of finishing and refining each tree (the 10%) takes more hours than the grower ever puts in. John would love to spend more time in Japan meeting and talking with growers about getting to that 90% mark. “You’re either growing, or finishing,” he comments, “not both.”
John works on a variety of trees and styles, teaches classes at Bonsai Northwest, and is in demand as a speaker at regional bonsai clubs for his knowledge, skills, and humor. His first-ever PNBCA convention presentation will focus on Shimpaku Juniper, his favorite tree thanks to its versatility, hardiness, and attractive small green foliage. Register now for John’s workshop Sunday October 16th.
Tips for Convention First-Timers
Does signing up for a four-day convention seem intimidating? For first-timers, we’ve compiled a few tips.
How do I decide what to do?
Sign up for workshops and demos as an observer. This is a great way to learn about different tree types, care and feeding, and styling strategies. The artists will be talking about these things as they work. Do remember, you’re there to listen.
Sign up for artists’ critiques of trees. Critiques are more affordable than workshops, and sometimes more useful for beginners.
Is it OK to take breaks and explore Olympia?
Absolutely! That’s why lunch is “on your own” every day. Parking at the hotel is free, so you can come and go as you like. Get outside and take a break! The waterfront and downtown are close by and full of eateries and interesting shops.
How much should I budget for auctions, raffles and vendors?
The more the better! But seriously, for a twenty-dollar bill you have a 1 in 52 chance of winning a raffle for a demo tree worth over $1000.
Bring cash or a credit card for the vendor marketplace. Many of these items are only accessible at the convention, as most convention vendors are private individuals who do not have shops. Get there early, the best stuff goes fast!
Is it OK to come alone, or better with someone else?
If you want to bring your spouse or partner who may not be interested in bonsai, they can shop or bike or hike while you geek out with the bonsai crowd. They can even bring a friend for the same great hotel rate.
And remember, spouses and friends can buy a convention meal plan for non-attendees so you can still enjoy breakfast and dinner together. Check the registration form for details.
I’m new. How do I meet people?
The exhibit! You’re standing next to someone else admiring a tree. What do you like best? Maybe you’d prefer a different color pot. Or maybe you’re wondering what the companion plant is. Speak up! There’s a good chance someone within earshot knows the answer.
Sit at a different table for every meal. These are bonsai people; you have something in common with everybody!
The bar! Whether or not you’re a drinker, the newly remodeled bar is enormous and a common late-night hangout. You might get to chat with the artists!
How do I pack?
This is October in the Northwest, folks. Remember there’s always the possibility of rain.
For the optional stone hunting expedition Thursday October 13, waders or knee-high waterproof boots are strongly recommended, along with pry bars, walking sticks, and backpacks for carrying stones.
If you’re skipping the stone trip, no waders, pry bars, or sticks are required! The bonsai dress code is casual and comfortable. That said, many people do enjoy dressing up for the banquet Saturday night.
What not to do
Don’t spend all your time with other members of your own club – you see them all the time. It’s a bonsai convention – why not branch out (or even ramify?)
Don’t miss the banquet (included in full registration). The magician will be working the crowd during the bar hour, then doing a mini-show. Dinner will be followed by awards, raffle, and auction.
Don’t delay – register today!