Department: 156 - Ikebana and Bonsai Showcase
SUPERINTENDENT
Jim Sadler | jimsadler1220@gmail.com
Clayton Arnot | clayton@missoulabonsai.com
Floriculture Building (15)
Ikebana Information
Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging, is much more than the creation of a visually pleasing display—it is a contemplative practice rooted in harmony, balance, and a deep respect for nature. Unlike Western floral design, which often emphasizes abundance and symmetry, Ikebana values simplicity, asymmetry, and the expressive use of space, allowing each stem, leaf, and blossom to convey meaning and emotion.
Practitioners approach their work with mindfulness, considering the relationship between heaven, earth, and humanity, and seeking to reveal the innate beauty of each element rather than reshape it. As you explore this Ikebana flower show, we invite you to look beyond decoration and experience the arrangements as quiet reflections of nature and spirit, each one offering a moment of pause, connection, and thoughtful observation.
For questions regarding the Ikebana Show, please contact Jim Sadler (jimsadler1220@gmail.com)
Bonsai Information
The Western Montana Bonsai Showcase 2026 is a community-centered celebration of bonsai artistry, horticulture, and education. Held during the Western Montana Fair, the showcase invites the public to experience the beauty and diversity of bonsai through thoughtfully curated displays featuring trees from local and regional artists.
This event highlights bonsai as a living art form—where patience, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to nature come together. Visitors can explore a wide range of styles and species while gaining insight into the techniques and stories behind each tree.
Designed to inspire curiosity and appreciation, the showcase fosters meaningful connections between artists, enthusiasts, and the broader Western Montana community.
For questions regarding the Bonsai Showcase, please contact Clayton Arnot (clayton@missoulabonsai.com)
Exhibitor Information
Entries may be received July 30, 5:00 PM to 8:00 Pm and July 31, 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. The Western Montana Fair opens to the public at 12:00 noon on July 31, and the Ikebana and Bonsai exhibits will remain on display through Friday and Saturday. Exhibits may be removed on August 2 prior to 11:30 AM, items not picked up may be moved to make room for the new show.
Drop off procedure can be found here.
IKEBANA RULES & REMINDERS
1.The show is judged by a vote of the public. Those attending have the opportunity to rank their choices on a ballot furnished by the show committee. The award determination will be determined July 31 at 7:00 PM.
2. Only one (1) exhibit is permitted by an exhibitor in each class.
3. Design must be the work of one individual; the exhibitor. The exhibitor may give another person permission to place the design.
4. Fresh plant material cannot be treated in any manner. Treating is changing the surface, texture, color or substance by dye, paint, and glitter. Etc.
5. Dried plant material may be treated and may be used in any design unless otherwise specified
6. Living plants (growing plants with roots) may be used.
7. Plant material need not have been grown by the exhibitor. All designs must contain some plant material. The sections call for certain plant material to be emphasized. The exhibitor may use any plant material they choose as long as it is not specifically restricted by the class.
8. It is recommended that a card of intent be used stating the artistic concept and plant material.
9. Entries can start to be received on Friday July 31, 2026, 9:00 AM and close at 11:00 AM.
10. The show opens to the public on Friday July 31, 2026, from 12:00 AM to 10 PM and continues each day until it closes Saturday August 1. 2026 at 10:00 PM. Entries can be picked up On Sunday August 2 at 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Items not picked up may be moved to make room for the new show.
11 The frame of reference for Exhibits may not exceed 34 inches in width and 24 inches in depth. There is no height restriction.
12. Underlays are encouraged. Back drops, panels, niches are not allowed.
Ikebana Show Exhibit Sections
Section 1: Use of Grasses and or Hosta Leaves
Class 4600 : (Low Container)"Kaze no Yasuragi" (Tranquility of the Wind) - Suggests a calming emotion and gentle movement of grasses in the breeze, evoking peace in a tea garden.
Class 4601: (Tall Container) "Midori no Chikai" (Oath of Green) - Highlights the vibrant green color of Hosta leaves, symbolizing renewal and harmony in nature.
Class 4602 : (Basket Container)"Shizuka no Nagare" (Peaceful Stream) - Represents the serene action of flowing water or the gentle sway of leaves, reflecting the peaceful ambiance of a Japanese tea garden.
Section 2: Use of Branches Highlight seasonal branches for structure and movement.
Class 4603 (Low Container) :"En no Kizuna" (Bond of Connection) - Symbolizes the interconnectedness of branches and the harmony found in a tea garden.
Class 4604 (High Container) :"Yagura no Ki" (Twilight Tree) - Evokes the serene beauty of branches silhouetted against the soft glow of a tea garden at dusk.
Class 4605 (Bamboo Container) :"Sabi no Shiori" (Elegance of Simplicity) - Reflects the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, appreciating the natural imperfections and simplicity of branches in a tranquil tea garden setting.
Section 3: Use of Decorative Wood - Combine flowers with sculptural wood pieces for rustic elegance.
4606(Low Container) : "Akebono no Tabiji" (Journey at Dawn) - Evokes the soft hues of dawn and the peaceful emotion of embarking on a tranquil walk to a tea garden.
4607" (Tall Container) : “Ki no Sarayaku" (Whisper of the Wood) - Indicates the gentle action of natural textures, leading one to reflect and find serenity in the tea garden.
4608 (Creative Design) : "Hikari no Michishirube" (Guidepost of light) - Represents the emotion of hope and the action of following the gentle glow that leads the way to the tranquility of a tea garden.