About

The Knoxville Bonsai Society was founded in 2001 by a handful of local bonsai enthusiasts from the East Tennessee area.  Initially, the society functioned as a small study group, meeting on occasion throughout the year to learn about various aspects of bonsai culture.  Over the past decade, the KBS has grown considerably and today is one of the leading bonsai groups in the Southeastern US.

Shannon Sayler conducting a workshop at the Spring Show during Blooms Day on the UT Campus

Shannon Sayler conducting a workshop at the Spring Show during Blooms Day on the UT Campus

The KBS meets once per month (typically on Saturday mornings), either at members’ homes or at the Knoxville Botanical Gardens.  At each meeting, a new topic related to bonsai art, culture, and design is presented and discussed.  These discussions are often led by veteran club members and are highly informative for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.  On occasion, the KBS also hosts bonsai professionals from across the US for lectures and workshops.  Past guest artists include Ryan Neil, Warren Hill, and Jim Doyle.

Tom Bjorholm helping one of our members with their tree during a monthly club meeting

Tom Bjorholm helping one of our members with their tree during a monthly club meeting

Throughout the year, the Knoxville Bonsai Society also participates in several bonsai exhibitions around the Southeast.  These include the Tennessee Regional show held in Nashville each July, the MABK show held in Johnson City each September, and the Carolina Bonsai Expo held in Asheville, NC each October.  In addition, the KBS also hosts two exhibitions.  Each February at the Knoxville Botanical Garden is their “Winter Bonsai Display” for KBS members trees and on Mothers’ Day in May, is the regional “Knoxville Bonsai Exhibition” featuring clubs from Tennessee, Georgia and North Carolina.  These events are designed to showcase our members’ hard work and dedication to the art of bonsai (plus, they’re just a whole lot of fun!).

If you are interested in attending an upcoming meeting, please visit our schedule page and feel free to contact us.  There is no pressure to join before attending, so feel free to stop in and see what the Knoxville Bonsai Society is all about!