The European Bonsai Pottery Contest 2026 |
| The majority of the pottery exhibition was devoted to European Bonsai Pottery Contest. Displays by 30 talented bonsai ceramists were exhibited, with a fascinating diversity in materials, forms and finishes. As well as traditional clay and porcelain, more innovative materials (for bonsai) were used, including sculpted solid stone and Terrazzo. The quality of exhibits was highly commendable, with artists displaying their finest works. It was a delight to witness such a wide variety of the highest quality bonsai ceramics from around Europe. |  |
CONGRATULATIONS to the contest winners!
 | UNGLAZED - JURI MARTENS, GERMANY |
 | GLAZED - NIELS VAN DER WAL, NETHERLANDS |
 | DECORATED - MARTIN ENGLERT, GERMANY |
| 1ST PLACE OVERALL - MARTIN ENGLERT, GERMANY |  |
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CONGRATULATIONS to Martin Englert for his exquisite display, and for winning the first European Bonsai Pottery Contest!
Thank you to all of the artists for participating in this historic event, and congratulations to the winners.
Thank you to all of the artists for participating in this historic event, and congratulations to the winners.
The most outstanding ‘TROPHY Bonsai Exhibition’ concludes!
… what a weekend!
It has been emotional. As months of hard work & preparation came to fruition this weekend, thousands enjoyed the largest & most sensational bonsai exhibition outside of Asia – The Trophy 2026!
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Year on year, since starting the annual pot displays here in 2019, I've witnessed the ‘bonsai pottery’ aspect of the exhibition become increasingly significant and popular – and this year it was truly spectacular! It is an honour & privilege to organise the pottery aspect, and now European contest - at such a prestigious exhibition.
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THE weekend of the bonsai year for many Europeans’. - One of the many great things about this hobby / artform is the lifelong friendships we make along the way. There aren’t many places where thousands of people, with a passion in common, meet from every corner of the world. ... people at first – but soon good friends that you look forward to seeing for just a weekend every year (albeit always too briefly!).
Bonsai is also about community, and the EBPC cherishes your support and friendship.
Bonsai is also about community, and the EBPC cherishes your support and friendship.
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My heartfelt thanks go to all those that helped make this magnificent weekend of events possible.
Although impossible to name everyone, I'd especially like to thank:
- The 30 ceramic artists that exhibited their works.
- The 20 pot collectors that exhibited.
- EBPC stand potters: Fusion (Niels & Pjotr), Kanso (Rosa), Terrajade (Julien), & Shibusa (Lorenzo).
With special thanks going to our HONOURED GUESTS:
* Mr Nakayama Senzan - for his attendance – exquisite pottery display – talk & demonstration – & judging.
* Haruko Ohno, of 盆栽大野 Bonsai-ohno - for translating & for her invaluable help (and Japanese lessons!).
* Angelica Ramirez of Discover Potters, & her father Angel - for their attendance & creating the bespoke lighting.
* Our friends from Turkey, including artists İlker Durak and Hüseyin Soylu.
* Other friends & helpers: Peter, Jens, Simon, The Triskele Group, Philip, Maarten and others.
* Mr Nakayama Senzan - for his attendance – exquisite pottery display – talk & demonstration – & judging.
* Haruko Ohno, of 盆栽大野 Bonsai-ohno - for translating & for her invaluable help (and Japanese lessons!).
* Angelica Ramirez of Discover Potters, & her father Angel - for their attendance & creating the bespoke lighting.
* Our friends from Turkey, including artists İlker Durak and Hüseyin Soylu.
* Other friends & helpers: Peter, Jens, Simon, The Triskele Group, Philip, Maarten and others.
And to our esteemed JUDGES:
- Mr Nakayama Senzan of Japan.
- Mr German Gomez Soler of Spain.
- Mr Harald Lehner of Germany.
The highly talented photographer:
- Mr Jörg Derlien.
- Mr Nakayama Senzan of Japan.
- Mr German Gomez Soler of Spain.
- Mr Harald Lehner of Germany.
The highly talented photographer:
- Mr Jörg Derlien.
And of course, a huge thank you to Christian, Luc, Roald, Danny, Erik, Danny, and all at The Trophy by Bonsai Association Belgium for their extensive year-round work that makes an event like this possible.
Here are some moments for now, from The Trophy 2026 - one I will never forget!
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In coming days, I’ll be adding more posts for each of the pottery highlights organised by the EBPC:
- The POTTERY EXHIBITION, featuring:
o WINNERS – European Bonsai Pottery Contest 2026.
o European Bonsai Pottery Contest
o Exclusive Nakayama Senzan 17-piece Pot Display.
* including 10 museum pieces.
o Collector’s Display!
o NABPC ’25 (N. American B Pottery Contest) winner
display.
- Nakayama Senzan POT TALK
o with PAINTING DEMONSTRATION!
- EBPC Stand.
o hosting 5 exciting European Potters.
- The POTTERY EXHIBITION, featuring:
o WINNERS – European Bonsai Pottery Contest 2026.
o European Bonsai Pottery Contest
o Exclusive Nakayama Senzan 17-piece Pot Display.
* including 10 museum pieces.
o Collector’s Display!
o NABPC ’25 (N. American B Pottery Contest) winner
display.
- Nakayama Senzan POT TALK
o with PAINTING DEMONSTRATION!
- EBPC Stand.
o hosting 5 exciting European Potters.
Thank you for supporting the EBPC and great European Bonsai Pottery & Display.
#Europeanbonsaipottercollective #trophybonsai #Senzan #europeanbonsaipotterycontest #bonsaiassociationbelgium #thetrophybonsai #potterycontest #bonsaiexhibition #BonsaiPots #ebpcpots
Honouring Artistic Mastery and Innovation in Bonsai Ceramics.
With the significance of bonsai ceramics witnessing an ongoing surge in the West, the 13th of September 2025 saw the birth of the first International North American Bonsai Pottery Contest (NABPC) in Rochester, New York.
The NABPC was a celebration of the art, and the ceramics displayed are truly something to behold. It has been a pleasure to witness such commitment and dedication to the art, by both the extraordinary artists, and by the facilitators of the event.
The NABPC was a celebration of the art, and the ceramics displayed are truly something to behold. It has been a pleasure to witness such commitment and dedication to the art, by both the extraordinary artists, and by the facilitators of the event.
 | Organised by Angelica Ramirez of Discover Potters and hosted by the American Bonsai Society (ABS) as part of their Learning Seminars, this premiere juried exhibition brought together the finest ceramicists from across the North America, each eager to showcase their creativity, technical prowess, and reverence for the art of bonsai ceramics. Throughout this article, please use the underlined links, for more images and information on the Discover Potters website. |
| The EBPC is proud to sponsor this prestigious event, and support our bonsai friends across the water. The event is a celebration of traditional and innovative bonsai pottery, and aims to record and further fuel the increasing desire for quality artisanal ceramics. |  |
Included in the display were ceramics by two ‘Honorary’ EBPC members.
Roy Minarai created an exciting display in the honorary display category, and Anthony Smith of Willow Bonsai was awarded 1st place in the ‘contemporary glazed’ category, as seen below.
Roy Minarai created an exciting display in the honorary display category, and Anthony Smith of Willow Bonsai was awarded 1st place in the ‘contemporary glazed’ category, as seen below.
Winner: Contemporary Glazed Category. Willow Bonsai (EBPC Member Artist)
A showcase of Contemporary & Traditional categories
Artists from across America and Canada produced very impressive entries for the following categories:
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In addition to the sensational pot contest, visitors were treated to the non-competitive ‘honorary exhibits’ from a selection of celebrated ceramicists, including: Gayle Fiato, Roy Minarai, April Grigsby, Sara Rayner, and by French artist, The Ghost Potter.
The cure for boredom. Roy Minarai (EBPC artist member). Wood Fired in Anagama Kiln
Bonsai has a habit of creating lifelong friendships and strong bonds are often formed within the bonsai community, so when the community loses cherished friends and artists, it is always strongly felt by many.
Tribute displays were also created to honour and remember three such friends; Nick Lenz, Pauline Muth, and the U.K.’s Andrew Pearson of Stone Monkey Ceramics.
 The last Alhambra Foutain 2024, Spain Edition. From the last Triskele collaboration with Andrew Pearson. Created by Andrew Pearson and Nick Hopes. |  In Memoriam. ANDREW PEARSON - Stone Monkey Ceramics - United Kingdom 1968-2024 |
A testimony of distinction.
Judging a contest with such a varied and impressive selection of entries is no easy task. Being both functional items, and pieces of art in their own right, the ceramic entries displayed high levels of technical ability, combined with a deep appreciation of both bonsai and the ceramics they require. A spectacular display of workmanship, creativity and utility.
Bonsai as an artform is ever evolving, and whilst understanding and respecting the traditions that underlie bonsai is important, innovation and progression of bonsai ceramics is also to be encouraged and celebrated.
The display encompassed a diverse range of artistic styles, forms and finishes, which was exciting to see, as it reflects the diverse range of bonsai trees and styles we cultivate and enjoy. Majestic and elegant traditional forms, expressive glazes, and some highly creative modern designs and interpretations. I would encourage anyone to spend a little time viewing all of the entries, through the links above.
The display encompassed a diverse range of artistic styles, forms and finishes, which was exciting to see, as it reflects the diverse range of bonsai trees and styles we cultivate and enjoy. Majestic and elegant traditional forms, expressive glazes, and some highly creative modern designs and interpretations. I would encourage anyone to spend a little time viewing all of the entries, through the links above.
'Flower Pattern' by Stacy Allen Muse
Meet the Winners
After careful deliberation by a panel of esteemed judges, the winners were announced to much anticipation. Winning pots were lauded for their originality, craftsmanship, and functionality as a bonsai container.
First Place
Second Place
Third Place
- Antony Smith (Contemporary Glazed)
- Doug Trythall (Contemporary Unglazed)
- Nao Tokutake (Traditional Glazed)
- Nao Tokutake (Unglazed)
Second Place
- Stacy Allen Muse (Contemporary Glazed)
- Denise Soultanian (Contemporary Unglazed)
- Mary J. Lai (Wife of Nao Tokutake, Traditional Glazed)
- Mary J. Lai (Wife of Nao Tokutake, Traditional Unglazed)
Third Place
 Nao Tokutake. Winner: Traditional Glazed. |  Doug Trythall. Winner: Contemporary Unglazed. |  Nao Tokutake. Winner: Traditional Unglazed. |
 | The Trophies The 2025 NABPC Trophies were created by a talented group of North American artists who have recently come together to form Third Wheel Potters. Third Wheel Potters comprises three talented artists and friends: Eli Akins, Robert Wallace and Preston Tolbert. You can read more here: |
Sharing in a mutual passion
The ABS Exhibition and the NABPC contest take place every two years, with the next edition in 2027. If you can't wait until then for more great bonsai pottery, don't miss the Trophy's European Bonsai Pottery Contest 28th March - 1st March 2026.
We are delighted to announce that some of the winning pots from this NABPC will also be displayed at The European Bonsai Pottery Contest at The Trophy, in Belgium, as honorary exhibits for all to appreciate and enjoy. The winning pots from The Trophy’s EBPC pottery contest will also have the opportunity to be displayed at the NABPC in New York.
This collaboration between the NABPC and the EBPC & The Trophy reflects the friendship and support often found in bonsai, and we are confident it will inspire potters and further strengthen the bonds between our two communities.
We are delighted to announce that some of the winning pots from this NABPC will also be displayed at The European Bonsai Pottery Contest at The Trophy, in Belgium, as honorary exhibits for all to appreciate and enjoy. The winning pots from The Trophy’s EBPC pottery contest will also have the opportunity to be displayed at the NABPC in New York.
This collaboration between the NABPC and the EBPC & The Trophy reflects the friendship and support often found in bonsai, and we are confident it will inspire potters and further strengthen the bonds between our two communities.
Oribe oval - by Sara Rayner.
Congratulations!
to all of the potters that contributed to this inspirational contest. Being selected to display at such an event is an admirable achievement and each artist deserves our thanks and admiration.
Congratulations to Patrik Lüthi of Fukurou, Switzerland!
Exquisite entries from 33 of Europe's most talented bonsai potters were featured this year, in the EBPC Pot Display at the prestigious 'Trophy Bonsai Exhibition' over a magnificent 100ft display.
The quality and diverse variety of entries this year was particularly impressive, with entries ranging from the classical styles, to cutting edge techniques and contemporary themes. We will look at the display in full in another article.
The winning entry was this striking wide-rim ceramic pot with a Lotus-shaped form and bespoke wooden base, by Fukurou Ceramics of Switzerland.
The pot has a wonderful blue/green aquamarine glaze, with impressive crystal nucleation. The lower part of this piece is an intricate, structurally designed wooden base that the pot inserts seamlessly into. Also made by the artist, the structure and inlay technique used here, further showcase his exceptional and varied talents.
Fukurou bonsai pots are made and finished with great care and attention to detail and are popular with some of Europe's leading bonsai artists.
... From Fukurou's EBPC Potter Profile:
'Fukurou Ceramics are the bonsai ceramic creations of Patrik Luthi, a gifted artist from the picturesque country of Switzerland. These high-quality handmade pieces have a touch of the Japanese aesthetic, yet retain a distinctive ‘Fukurou’ style. Designs are inspired by classical forms and are very suitable for use with good quality bonsai trees. ‘As with bonsai, I feel mostly attracted by the traditional pots, but love to develop new glaze recipes and new shapes.’
Being the grandson of a woodsman, and having grown up around the woods, mountains and lakes of Switzerland, Patrik has always had a close affinity with nature and has kept bonsai for over a decade. Studying at the renowned Kitoras Bonsai School under Nicola Crivelli, Patrik has developed a keen eye for bonsai design and aesthetics – an essential requisite for creating high quality bonsai ceramics.
Pots are mostly thrown on a potter’s wheel, or slab built and come in a variety of forms. Unglazed wares come in a range of clays, including a wonderful dark grey, and a reddish-brown clay. No commercial glazes are used, as Patrik enjoys experimenting and creating exciting new glazes.'
Thank you to Patrik, and all of the talented artists that contributed to the magnificent display of bonsai ceramics this year.
Please look out for the coming post on the Pot Display.
Thank you for following and supporting the EPBC.
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 | POTTER REGISTRATION for |  |
SUBMISSIONS TAKEN FROM 15th JULY - 28th NOVEMBER 2023!
CALLING ALL BONSAI CERAMISTS of EUROPE
In February 2024, Europe’s most prestigious bonsai exhibition will again be hosting the largest display of high-quality bonsai ceramics in Europe – the EBPC Trophy Pot Display!
We love celebrating and bringing more attention to the pots! Since the EBPC first started pot displays in 2015, the POT DISPLAY has become an integral part of leading bonsai exhibitions across Europe, as it has been for many years in Japan.
As enthusiasts and professionals alike attach increasing recognition to the importance of quality European bonsai ceramics, the main purpose of the display is to enhance appreciation in the art of bonsai pottery and to highlight the aesthetics and functionality of high-quality bonsai pots.
CALLING ALL BONSAI CERAMISTS of EUROPE
In February 2024, Europe’s most prestigious bonsai exhibition will again be hosting the largest display of high-quality bonsai ceramics in Europe – the EBPC Trophy Pot Display!
We love celebrating and bringing more attention to the pots! Since the EBPC first started pot displays in 2015, the POT DISPLAY has become an integral part of leading bonsai exhibitions across Europe, as it has been for many years in Japan.
As enthusiasts and professionals alike attach increasing recognition to the importance of quality European bonsai ceramics, the main purpose of the display is to enhance appreciation in the art of bonsai pottery and to highlight the aesthetics and functionality of high-quality bonsai pots.
The pot display will exhibit 100ft of the best in European bonsai ceramics and will be a great education for the general public and bonsai enthusiasts – in addition to being an integral part of Europe’s finest bonsai exhibition.
Successful entrants will enjoy viewing their work on display at Europe’s most prestigious exhibition, and additionally each pot displayed will be forever recorded with a half page entry in the celebrated Trophy annual hardback book.
Successful entrants will enjoy viewing their work on display at Europe’s most prestigious exhibition, and additionally each pot displayed will be forever recorded with a half page entry in the celebrated Trophy annual hardback book.
Winning Display 2023. By Sami Amdouni, France.
Thank you for helping to support great European Bonsai Pottery
www.EuropeanBonsaiPotterCollective.com
www.EuropeanBonsaiPotterCollective.com
These wonderful pots, handmade in France, have some beautiful unglazed finishes and excellent glazes including; Okinawa, Mursakino, Lichen, Translucent Crackle Green.
Check them out in-store NOW! - https://europeanbonsaipottercollective.ecwid.com/EBPC...
Check them out in-store NOW! - https://europeanbonsaipottercollective.ecwid.com/EBPC...
 | The square cascade will remain in the EBPC collection, an excellent Okinawa glaze, similar in design to Sabine’s superb entry to the The Trophy by Bonsai Association Belgium EBPC Pot Display (posts on the pot display coming soon! |
#sabinebesnard #sabinebesnardceramics #ebpcpots #pottery #bonsai #bonsaipots #Europeanbonsaipottercollective #bonsaitree #crystallineglaze #bonsai #盆栽 #盆栽鉢
Www.europeanbonsaipottercollective.com
Thank you for helping support great European Bonsai Pottery!
Return of The Trophy!
In just 10 days from now, Europe’s most prestigious bonsai exhibition, 'The Trophy International Bonsai Exhibition' returns, after 2 years of being postponed due to Covid.
The EBPC has once again arranged for you, Europe’s largest display of exquisite bonsai pots. A 100ft display, this year featuring the ‘Best in European Bonsai Ceramics’! .. Not to be missed!
Please also visit us at the EBPC Trade stand, where we will be hosting a few EBPC member artists and have some excellent bonsai ceramics available for sale.
We can’t wait for all this exciting weekend has to offer, including catching up with everyone!
We hope to see you there!
The Trophy by Bonsai Association Belgium
European Bonsai Potter Collective
#ebpcpots #Europeanbonsaipottercollective #TheTrophy #bonsaiexhibition #bonsaipotdisplay #potdisplay
The EBPC has once again arranged for you, Europe’s largest display of exquisite bonsai pots. A 100ft display, this year featuring the ‘Best in European Bonsai Ceramics’! .. Not to be missed!
Please also visit us at the EBPC Trade stand, where we will be hosting a few EBPC member artists and have some excellent bonsai ceramics available for sale.
We can’t wait for all this exciting weekend has to offer, including catching up with everyone!
We hope to see you there!
The Trophy by Bonsai Association Belgium
European Bonsai Potter Collective
#ebpcpots #Europeanbonsaipottercollective #TheTrophy #bonsaiexhibition #bonsaipotdisplay #potdisplay
AuthorArticles are written by Alex Rudd unless otherwise stated. |
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