BONSAI POTTERY COMPETITION
2026 Fall Fruit & Foliage Bonsai Exhibition
Hidden Lake Gardens and the North American Bonsai Federation are proud to present the North American Bonsai Pottery Competition, held in conjunction with the Fall Fruit & Foliage Bonsai Exhibition, taking place October 17–18, 2026.
This special competition invites artists to contribute to the legacy of Hidden Lake Gardens by designing and creating an American-made ceramic bonsai container for a significant American Wisteria, Wisteria frutescens, in the Gardens’ permanent bonsai collection.
A Tree with a Legacy
This remarkable American Wisteria bonsai is one of the most meaningful pieces in the Hidden Lake Gardens collection. Originally received as a gift in 1966, it was carefully trained and developed over decades by Jack Wikle, a highly respected figure in the bonsai community. The tree was later acquired by Hidden Lake Gardens in 2012 and is now over 60 years old.
The selection of this tree for the competition is especially significant, honoring Jack Wikle’s lifelong contributions to the art of bonsai and his enduring relationship with Hidden Lake Gardens.
Since 2022, the bonsai has been cared for by Bonsai Curator Jon Genereaux and his team. Recognizing the tree’s importance and maturity, Jon has identified this moment as the ideal time for a new, thoughtfully designed container—one that reflects both the artistry of bonsai and the craftsmanship of contemporary ceramic artists.
About Jack Wikle
Jack Wikle’s influence on bonsai at Hidden Lake Gardens and beyond is profound. A graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in biology, Jack was introduced to bonsai while serving in the U.S. military in Japan, where he developed a deep appreciation for Japanese gardens and horticultural traditions.
Upon returning to the United States, he continued his bonsai journey under the mentorship of Bob Maxson, one of Michigan’s early bonsai pioneers. Jack became particularly known for his innovative work growing hardy Shohini bonsai year‑round under artificial light.
Jack joined Hidden Lake Gardens in 1968 and has remained closely connected to the Gardens ever since. He played a key role in establishing the permanent bonsai collection, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape the program today.
Learn more about Jack's legacy at https://jackwiklebonsailegacy.com/.
The Design Challenge
We invite potters from across the United States and Canada to share their creativity and craftsmanship by designing a pot that enhances and complements this remarkable bonsai.
Participants may submit:
- One original design with drawings and specifications, or
- One completed container with photographs and details
All submissions must be submitted by July 15, 2026 and reflect the unique character, form, and artistic vision of the existing bonsai tree.
Design Considerations & Specifications
Participants are asked to design a container that supports both the health of the tree and the artistic integrity of the bonsai.
Please note: the tree’s existing form and orientation should remain true to the artist’s ongoing vision.
Tree Dimensions
- Root ball: 4.5” H × 16” W × 12” D
- Nebari (root flare): 9.5” wide at soil line
- Trunk: 6” wide above root flare; 5.5” at first branch
- Branching: approximately 25” H × 40” W × 36” D
Current Container Size
- 5.5” H × 18.5” W × 14.25” D (including rim)
Judging & Recognition
After submissions are received, entries will be reviewed by HLG Bonsai Curator Jon Genereaux and the bonsai collection staff.
- One winning design will be selected, notified and announced by August 1, 2026
- The winning artist will receive a cash prize of $250
- The winning pot and Wisteria bonsai will be featured during the exhibition, highlighted at the Saturday evening Gala and announced on the website and social media pages of Hidden Lake Gardens and any other relevant partners.
Following the exhibition:
- The newly potted bonsai will become a permanent display in the Bonsai Courtyard in Spring 2027
- The artist’s name will be included on the official bonsai label, recognizing their contribution for years to come
Delivery of Winning Entry
The selected pot may be:
- Shipped (at the artist’s cost and liability), or
- Delivered in person
The winning container must arrive at Hidden Lake Gardens by October 16, 2026, in time for installation and display.
Get Involved
We look forward to seeing each artist’s unique vision and interpretation. This is a rare opportunity to create a lasting contribution to a nationally recognized bonsai collection.
This competition represents a unique moment where ceramic artistry and living horticultural art intersect. The selected piece will not only debut during a major exhibition but will become a lasting part of Hidden Lake Gardens’ bonsai collection.
We look forward to seeing how each artist interprets this opportunity to create something truly meaningful.
