The Society

The Bonsai Society of Greater New Haven, established in 1973, is a non-profit educational organization. Its Japanese name is Kaigan Mori Bonsai Kyokai (Kaigan = seashore, Mori = grove), reflecting a proximity to the waters of New Haven Harbor and Long Island Sound. The objectives of the Society are to exchange knowledge of bonsai within the organization and share bonsai culture with the community through meetings, workshops, demonstrations, and exhibits

The Society is a member of the American Bonsai Society, the North American Bonsai Federation, and Bonsai Clubs International and contributes support to The National Bonsai Foundation in Washington, D.C.

The regular meetings are held at Edgerton Park in New Haven on the second Tuesday of each month from January through June and September through November and begin at 7:00 p.m. The usual format consists of a brief business session followed by a demonstration of bonsai techniques or a presentation on a bonsai-related subject. In December there is a pot-luck holiday party, and in July or August the members get together for a picnic. Additional meetings are occasionally held to accommodate special guests and demonstrators. The Society has an annual exhibition of members' trees and other bonsai related materials, with a dinner and auction held on the evening of the opening of the exhibition.

Throughout the year there are opportunities for people of all skill levels to learn about bonsai. The Society has been fortunate to have some of the finest bonsai artists in the world come to New Haven to give demonstrations, lectures, and workshops. Guests have included Kenji Miyata, Jack Billet, Jim Barrett, James Doyle, Pauline Muth, Doris Froning, Marion Gyllenswan, John Romano, Mike Pollock, Nick Lenz, Mary Madison, Hal Mahoney, Boon Manakitivipart, Roy Nagatoshi, John Naka, Guy Guidry, Chase Rosade, Arthur Skolnik, Andy Smith, Suthin Sukosolvisit and Yuji Yoshimura. There are also many knowledgeable and talented members who are eager to share their love of the ancient and beautiful art of bonsai with experienced practitioners or those taking their first steps.

Anyone interested in furthering the objectives of the Society is welcome and may become a member by paying the annual dues.