Cancelled due to low enrollment.

The Art of Bonsai for Beginners (Adult)
Sunday, July 23, 2017, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
$56 Adult; $52 Nature Center member
Paid reservations required by Monday, July 17, 2017
Limited enrollment.

Learn to create miniature trees in the Japanese bonsai tradition.

Learn about the history of bonsai, the specialized tools used, and the most common styles of bonsai; all while creating your own bonsai tree! Trenton Lutes will share information gathered from years of experience as he walks you through the beginning step.

This class will instruct the beginning bonsai enthusiast in the techniques needed to turn a standard nursery stock plant into their very own bonsai. During time together you will discuss briefly the history of bonsai, the most common styles of bonsai, the specialized tools needed, and general bonsai care. You will then proceed to create your own bonsai. Using pre-selected nursery stock you will find the front and line of the trees, use careful pruning and pinching to remove unwanted branches, leaves and needles, as well as use basic wiring techniques to help shape the trees.

Included with Class:

• 1 hand selected nursery plant (varieties may vary depending on season and availability)
• 1 bonsai pot
• Soil and wire
• 101 Essential Bonsai Tips book

Tools will be provided for use during class only. Some tools will be specialized bonsai tools, but the majority will be simple tools you can find around your home. These you can initially use to get started creating more bonsai without having to invest in expensive, specialized tools up front.

Trenton Lutes graduated from Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY with concentrations in painting, photography and glassblowing. He is self-taught in the art of bonsai and has been working with his trees for seven years now. He has taught bonsai classes at a variety of locations around Chautauqua County including: Audubon, Sensory Winery & Art Gallery, The Resource Center, Westfield Grape Discovery Center, and the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities.

Special Information: Bonsai is a hands-on technique, you will most likely get dirty. Please dress appropriately, or consider bringing an apron.