Bonsai Winnipeg Returns to WAG-Qaumajuq to Mark its 40th Anniversary

Experience the fusion of nature, culture, and artistic expression June 26-29

Winnipeg, Manitoba, June 25, 2025: The Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG)-Qaumajuq is thrilled to once again be partnering with and hosting The Bonsai Society of Winnipeg as they celebrate their 40^th anniversary June 26-29. The return of the art of bonsai to WAG-Qaumajuq will include an opening night gala, guided tours, an expert demonstration, and public presentation; programming is included in the cost of Gallery admission.

The rare showcase of trees shaped by time and the human hand, displayed amongst the backdrop of stunning art and architecture is an event unlike any other. To celebrate an incredible 40 years, WAG-Qaumajuq is pleased to transform the Gallery into a space devoted to living sculptures that echo the landscapes of Canada and beyond.

The Bonsai Society of Winnipeg was organized in the early 1980s by a group of enthusiasts who wanted to share their experiences, learn from each other, pool their resources, and enjoy the companionship of others with a common interest. As a member of BCI (Bonsai Clubs International) the society maintains ties with other bonsai clubs in Canada, the USA, and around the world. The Bonsai Society of Winnipeg offers expert teaching and encourages artists to grow and design their own bonsai in Manitoba’s Zone 3 environment. Over 100 members have access to materials, supplies, and hands-on training led by internationally recognized visiting artists.

The opening night gala will take place on June 26 at 6:30pm, marking the opening of the 2025 exhibit. Ticket sales have closed but attending guests will enjoy a selection of food, drinks, and entertainment with remarks commemorating the 40^th anniversary. Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy guided tours of the displays daily at 2:30 and 3:30 pm, on June 28, there will be two expert demonstrations with artists Trieu Vo and Denis Girardin, and on June 29, a public presentation on the art of storytelling with bonsai.

Quick Facts:

• WAG-Qaumajuq is excited to partner with and host the Bonsai Society of Winnipeg as they celebrate their 40^th anniversary June 26-29, 2025.
• Everyone is invited to experience the return of bonsai to the Gallery, set amongst a stunning backdrop of art and architecture, with public opportunities to learn and engage with bonsai experts, included in the cost of admission.
• Throughout the weekend, visitors can attend guided tours, expert demonstrations, and a public presentation. See the full schedule on our website.
• Founded in the 1980s, the Bonsai Society of Winnipeg offers expert teaching, workshops, and encourages artists to grow and design their own bonsai in Manitoba’s Zone 3 climate.
  

Quotes:

“We are very happy to host the Bonsai Society of Winnipeg at WAG-Qaumajuq once again as we celebrate their 40^th anniversary. This partnership is an opportunity to bring a different kind of art to the Gallery, I am excited to see what they will create, and the reactions of the visitors. It is such a unique art that I think serves the same mission to inspire and create calm. Congratulations to Scott Samson and the entire team – we can’t wait to celebrate with you!”

— Stephen Borys, Director & CEO, WAG-Qaumajuq

“As we mark 40 years of bonsai education and exhibition in Manitoba, we’re honoured to once again be showcasing our work at the Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq! Stephen and his team have been a fantastic asset over the last few years, and we’re extremely fortunate that they share our vision of the artform. Please join us and experience an exhibit unlike any other.”

— Scott Samson, President, Bonsai Society of Winnipeg

Support

WAG-Qaumajuq is grateful for our partnership with Bonsai Society of Winnipeg and support from Shelmerdine Garden Centre.

Associated Links

Bonsai Winnipeg x WAG-Qaumajuq
Bonsai Society of Winnipeg

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For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact:

Katryna Barske
Public Relations Officer
Winnipeg Art Gallery
204.789.1295
kbarske@wag.ca

About Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG)-Qaumajuq
The Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG)-Qaumajuq is a cultural advocate using art as a catalyst for change. The Gallery features an impressive collection of nearly 30,000 artworks spanning centuries, cultures, and media, including the largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art in the world. Each piece has its own story to tell. Sharing these stories with the world is at the core of WAG-Qaumajuq. This is an engaging, accessible space where visitors can experience art and learning in new ways. Principles of equity, care, trust, and responsibility guide the institution towards meaningful impact and transformation. To learn more, visit wag.ca.

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