Gresham Japanese Garden

Tai Chi - Flow
2025-04-26 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Any easy version of the most common Tai Chi forms, designed as a relaxed intro for anyone to begin a moving mediation. Beginner friendly.

Tai Chi - Qigong
2025-04-26 16:00 - 17:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
An ancient practice intented to cultivate Qi, life force energy, allowing any person to find inner peace and gentle strength.

Spring Candling and Maintenance on Pines
2025-05-03 13:00 - 15:00 | GJG Tsuru Island, 124 S Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97030, United States
Learn all about the why’s and how’s to de-candle different cultivars of pines. Instructor Laura Dufala with Bentwood Tree Farm will explain the benefits and ramifications of de-candling several pine cultivars on Gresham Japanese Garden – Tsuru Island. This workshop is in person. Bring your gloves, Laura may turn the class into a collaborative session.

Bonsai Critique - Afternoon Session
2025-05-03 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
The ‘Bonsai Critique’ brings together bonsai enthusiasts for an in-depth critique session led by Gresham Japanese Garden’s newest instructor, Bobby Curttright. Participants will present a tree for constructive feedback on aesthetics, health, and styling techniques.
Throughout the critique, Bobby will provide insights on refinement, branch structure, and long-term development strategies, helping all students gain a deeper understanding of training, health, and development fostering an engaging and educational atmosphere.
Attendees will leave with valuable knowledge and inspiration to enhance their trees, making the event a rewarding experience for both beginners and seasoned practitioners.

Spring Pruning at Vanport International
2025-05-10 10:00 - 16:00 | Vanport International, 28590 Wally Road, Boring, OR, 97009, United States
For the intermediate pruners, a hands-on opportunity to prune a variely of plants at a Japanese garden in Boring, OR to learn alongside a professional aesthetic pruner trained in Japan and owns her own business, Niwa Method.
This is the Gresham Japanese Garden’s fourth opportunity to prune at Vanport International. There are still many plants that need to be pruned and brought back to the vision the original garden designer Hoichi Kurisu.

2025 The Art of Bonsai - May-Thursday
2025-05-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
MAY AND SEPTEMBER PROJECTS: AIR LAYERING AND GROUND LAYERING FOR BONSAI
🌱 Air Layering & Ground Layering Bonsai Workshop
Location: Gresham Japanese Garden – Kyoudou CenterMaterials Provided | Bring Your Bonsai Tools
Overview
Looking for an affordable and effective way to create your own bonsai tree? Join us for this hands-on workshop where you’ll learn air layering—a technique that allows you to grow a new tree by separating a branch from an existing one.
We’ll cover several approaches to air layering, discuss which tree species respond best, and walk through how to plan your bonsai before separation.
We’ll also explore ground layering, a related technique used to correct aesthetic issues on trees already in containers. Both methods will be demonstrated on real trees in our greenhouse, and students will get to perform their own air layer.

🌿 Note: Once you learn air layering, you may start scouting branches all over the neighborhood! (Please get permission before layering someone else’s tree.)

What’s Included

✅ Expert instruction
✅ Greenhouse demonstration
✅ One-on-one guidance during hands-on practice
✅ Follow-up class in September for separation and potting

Part 2: Follow-Up Class – September
In September, we’ll host a second class to check on your air layers and (if successful) guide you through the separation and potting process. To ensure everyone can participate—even if their first attempt doesn’t take—we’ll have extra air layers available.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today!

September Thursday's Class

Creating Pollinator Habitat for your Garden and Home
2025-05-17 10:00 - 11:30 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
In collaboration with Judy Alleruzzo of Al’s Garden & Home from Gresham, GJG volunteer Deb Peters will present a seminar about creating the perfect pollinator habitat at your own home and garden. You will learn how to preserve and protect certain types of native butterflies such as the Western Monarch. Learn the best ways to provide valuable nectar to all pollinators including bees, moths and hummingbirds. Learn what, how and where to plant pollinator friendly plants and how to avoid the use of pesticides.
Coupons to Al’s will be distributed.
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2025 The Art of Bonsai - May-Sat
2025-05-17 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Saturday May 17 – PART 1Saturday, September 20 – PART 2
🌱 Air Layering & Ground Layering Bonsai Workshop
Hands-on Class + Follow-Up Saturday, September 20Location: Gresham Japanese GardenMaterials Provided | Bring Your Bonsai Tools
Overview
Looking for an affordable and effective way to create your own bonsai tree? Join us for this hands-on workshop where you’ll learn air layering—a technique that allows you to grow a new tree by separating a branch from an existing one.
We’ll cover several approaches to air layering, discuss which tree species respond best, and walk through how to plan your bonsai before separation.
We’ll also explore ground layering, a related technique used to correct aesthetic issues on trees already in containers. Both methods will be demonstrated on real trees in our greenhouse, and students will get to perform their own air layer.

🌿 Note: Once you learn air layering, you may start scouting branches all over the neighborhood! (Please get permission before layering someone else’s tree.)

What’s Included

✅ Expert instruction
✅ All specialty materials provided
✅ Greenhouse demonstrations
✅ One-on-one guidance during hands-on practice
✅ Follow-up class in September for separation and potting

Part 2: Follow-Up Class – September
In September, we’ll host a second class to check on your air layers and (if successful) guide you through the separation and potting process. To ensure everyone can participate—even if their first attempt doesn’t take—we’ll have extra air layers available.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today!

September Sat. Class

Introduction to Ikebana - May
2025-05-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in the Workshop
In this workshop, instructor Nana Bellerud covers the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Participants will practice a basic style arrangement within the rules of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects, instructor Nana Bellerud will show you how ikebana explores artistic concepts such as balance, contrast, and negative space.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.

Kenzan + Container – $25
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $25 includes both. Only cash or check.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

Introduction to Ikebana - June
2025-06-10 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080

2025 The Art of Bonsai-June-Thurs
2025-06-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Managing Pines for Bonsai
Pines are one of the most iconic and traditional species used in Japanese bonsai. Known for their strength, structure, and symbolism, pines also teach us the importance of managing a tree’s energy. With proper handling—especially in spring—they are a joy to work with. But without guidance, they can leave even seasoned caretakers scratching their heads.
This introductory workshop provides a hands-on overview of pine bonsai care, with a focus on spring maintenance. Participants will choose a pine for their take home project from a variety of pines from our collection. You will leave with not only a pine to care for, but a confident, informed care of this unique species.
🌿 Workshop Details

Date: Thursday June 19, 2025
Time: 6pm – 8pm
Location: Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center
Class Size: Limited to 16 participants
Cost: $45 – All materials provided. Please bring bonsai tools like snippers, wire cutters, gloves.

📘 What You’ll Learn

Principles of energy management in pine bonsai
Overview of PNW-friendly pine species
Spring care techniques and seasonal expectations
Hands-on experience with greenhouse specimens

This session offers broad exposure to core pine bonsai concepts but does not go in-depth on individual techniques such as decandling.
Coming soon: A dedicated class on Decandling for Double-Flush Pines (like Japanese Black Pine) will be offered as a complement to this workshop.
📝 Register Now
Spots are limited – early registration is encouraged.

2025 The Art of Bonsai - June-Saturday
2025-06-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Managing Pines for Bonsai
Pines are one of the most iconic and traditional species used in Japanese bonsai. Known for their strength, structure, and symbolism, pines also teach us the importance of managing a tree’s energy. With proper handling—especially in spring—they are a joy to work with. But without guidance, they can leave even seasoned caretakers scratching their heads.
This introductory workshop provides a hands-on overview of pine bonsai care, with a focus on spring maintenance. Participants will choose a pine for their take home project from a variety of pines from our collection. You will leave with not only a pine to care for, but a confident, informed care of this unique species.
🌿 Workshop Details

Date: Saturday June 21, 2025
Time: 1pm – 3pm
Location: Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center
Class Size: Limited to 16 participants
Cost: $45 – All materials provided. Please bring bonsai tools like snippers, wire cutter, gloves.

📘 What You’ll Learn

Principles of energy management in pine bonsai
Overview of PNW-friendly pine species
Spring care techniques and seasonal expectations
Hands-on experience with greenhouse specimens

This session offers broad exposure to core pine bonsai concepts but does not go in-depth on individual techniques such as decandling.
Coming soon: A dedicated class on Decandling for Double-Flush Pines (like Japanese Black Pine) will be offered as a complement to this workshop.
Spots are limited – early registration is encouraged.

Introduction to Ikebana - July
2025-07-08 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080

2025 The Art of Bonsai-July-Thurs
2025-07-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
The project for July is Kusamono.
You will make a Kusamono, learn why and when they are used, and the careful maintenance. Kusamono are traditionally used next to bonsai to complement the bonsai and enhance the display, with the suggestion of a season.
The Art of Bonsai embodies the Japanese spirit with philosophy and aesthetics harmonizing and complimenting each other. Bonsai is more than just an art form – it is a way of life and thinking; a way of cultivating patience, nobility, and sympathy – and this is the reason why bonsai is important for Japanese culture. Therefore, to understand bonsai, you must learn and understand each of its core values ​​in order to experience it with a calm and open mind.
Explore Gresham Japanese Garden’s Art of Bonsai workshop. Each month will be a different project in creating your own bonsai. The cost includes all materials.
Please bring your own pruners or snippers.
Cost: $45 per class
2025 Date: Thursday July 17, 2025
Time: 6pm – 8pm
Place: The Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, the building at the south end of Main City Park. There is a parking lot near the building.

2025 The Art of Bonsai - July-Saturday
2025-07-19 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
The project for July is Kusamono.
You will make a Kusamono, learn why and when they are used, and the careful maintenance. Kusamono are traditionally used next to bonsai to complement the bonsai and enhance the display, with the suggestion of a season.
The Art of Bonsai embodies the Japanese spirit with philosophy and aesthetics harmonizing and complimenting each other. Bonsai is more than just an art form – it is a way of life and thinking; a way of cultivating patience, nobility, and sympathy – and this is the reason why bonsai is important for Japanese culture. Therefore, to understand bonsai, you must learn and understand each of its core values ​​in order to experience it with a calm and open mind.
Explore Gresham Japanese Garden’s Art of Bonsai workshop. Each month will be a different project in creating your own bonsai. The $45.00 cost includes all materials. Please bring your own pruners or snippers.
Cost: $45 per class
2025 Dates: Third Saturday of the month.
Time: Saturday: 1pm – 3pm,
Place: The Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, the building at the south end of Main City Park. There is a parking lot near the building.

Bonsai: Open Kobo
2025-08-01 10:00 - 14:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
We’re excited to unveil Open Kobo, the newest offering in our Art of Bonsai series. This drop‑in workshop invites you to bring your bonsai anytime between 10 AM and 2 PM, in a relaxed, collaborative environment at the Kyoudou Center. Open Kobo will end at 2pm, so arrive early enough to receive consultation.
Whether you’re refining a bonsai’s shape, practicing wiring, or planning future enhancements, you’ll receive expert guidance from GJG’s bonsai master, Bobby Curttright. alongside a friendly community of fellow enthusiasts.
You will have access to use Bobby’s bonsai tools and wiring supplies. Please note: repotting supplies will not be provided, as repotting is covered in a separate class. Light refreshments will be available.
If you’re planning on dropping in, please bring payment ($20) in cash. We look forward to seeing your creativity enhanced and your knowledge of bonsai strengthened!
NOTE: Kobo means “workshop” in Japanese.

Introduction to Ikebana - August
2025-08-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in the Workshop
In this workshop, instructor Nana Bellerud covers the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Participants will practice a basic style arrangement within the rules of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects, instructor Nana Bellerud will show you how ikebana explores artistic concepts such as balance, contrast, and negative space. This workshop will focus primarily on the concept of negative space using summer-blooming flowers.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.

Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2025 The Art of Bonsai - August-Saturday
2025-08-16 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
August class is: Grafting demonstration on juniper. Each student will go home with a small juniper on rocks, and learn how to care for it.
Explore Gresham Japanese Garden’s Art of Bonsai workshop. The project for August has not been decided yet. The $45.00 cost includes all materials. Please bring your bonsai tools.
Cost: $45.00
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 1pm – 3pm
Location: The Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, the building at the south end of Main City Park. There is a parking lot near the building.

2025 The Art of Bonsai-August-Thurs
2025-08-21 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
August class is: Grafting demonstration on juniper. Each student will go home with a small juniper on rocks, and learn how to care for it.
Explore Gresham Japanese Garden’s Art of Bonsai workshop. This month’s project has not been decided yet, but rest assured you will learn a new technique AND take a bonsai home with you with care instructions. Cost includes all materials. Please bring your bonsai tools.
Cost: $45 per
2025 Date: Thursday August 21, 2025
Time: 6pm – 8pm
Place: The Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, the building at the south end of Main City Park. There is a parking lot near the building.

Bonsai: Styling Kobo - Sept
2025-09-05 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
September’s Styling Kobo will be a Tsuga mertensiana, also known as mountain hemlock. The mountain hemlock Bobby Curttright is using for his styling demonstration was collected from the Mt Hood area over 30 years ago! The collector is unknown.

Hands on Pruning a Japanese Garden - Summer-25
2025-09-06 10:00 - 16:00 | Vanport International, 28590 Wally Road, Boring, OR, 97009, United States
For the intermediate pruners, a hands-on opportunity to prune a variety of plants at a Japanese garden in Boring, OR, learning alongside Francheska Snyder, a professional ornamental pruner. This workshop will focus on vine maples and upright Acer palmatums. You must be comfortable on tall ladders.
The Gresham Japanese Garden’s prune the Japanese garden at Vanport International three times a year. There are many shrubs and trees that need restored to their intended size and brought back to the vision of the original garden designer, Hoichi Kurisu.
This workshop is certified by the Oregon Landscape Contractors Board. Licensed landscape construction professionals receive five Continuing Education Hours (CEH).

Introduction to Ikebana - September
2025-09-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
In this workshop, which happens to take place on Chrysanthemum Day, instructor Nana Bellerud will include discussions on chrysanthemum’s botanical, historical and cultural aspects. Then, you will create an ikebana using chrysanthemums and other plant materials. It will be a lot of fun.
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.

Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2025 The Art of Bonsai -Sept-Thursday
2025-09-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
🌱 Air Layering & Ground Layering Bonsai Workshop – Part 2
Hands-on Follow-Up Class
Location: Gresham Japanese Garden – Kyoudou Center
Materials Provided | Bring Your Bonsai Tools
Overview
This class you will check on your air layers and (if successful) guide you through the separation and potting process. To ensure everyone can participate—even if your first attempt doesn’t take—we’ll have extra air layers available. You do not need to have taken Part 1 to participate. Air layers will be available.
🌿 Note: Once you learn air layering, you may start scouting branches all over the neighborhood! (Please get permission before layering someone else’s tree.)
What’s Included

✅ Expert instruction
✅ All specialty materials provided
✅ One-on-one guidance during hands-on practice

Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

2025 The Art of Bonsai - Sept-Sat
2025-09-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
🌱 Air Layering & Ground Layering Bonsai Workshop – Part 2
Hands-on Follow-Up ClassLocation: Gresham Japanese Garden – Kyoudou CenterMaterials Provided | Bring Your Bonsai Tools
Overview
This class you will check on your air layers and (if successful) guide you through the separation and potting process. To ensure everyone can participate—even if your first attempt doesn’t take—we’ll have extra air layers available. You do not need to have taken Part 1 to participate. Air layers will be available.

🌿 Note: Once you learn air layering, you may start scouting branches all over the neighborhood! (Please get permission before layering someone else’s tree.)

What’s Included

✅ Expert instruction
✅ All specialty materials provided
✅ One-on-one guidance during hands-on practice

Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

Introduction to Takegaki
2025-09-21 09:30 - 12:30 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Bamboo is a great fencing material because it is a renewable resource that is extremely hardy with excellent structural integrity. Bamboo fences add beauty and serenity to any landscape that withstand the test of time. The Gresham Japanese Garden is offering a bamboo fencing workshop with owner Mark Meenan with American Bamboo Company.
Mr. Meenan will focus on teaching the fundamentals of building traditional Japanese bamboo fences. This class reviews tools and materials as well as techniques including how to cut bamboo.
The Gresham Japanese Garden is undergoing a major renovation of their Japanese garden. A portion of this renovation is installing Yotsume-gaki fencing around the perimeter of Tsuru Island. The workshop is free to all students willing to give eight hours of their time on a date TBD volunteering to help make the Yotsume-gaki fencing. Send an email to info@greshamjapanesegarden.com to reserve your spot in the workshop. Non-student volunteers is $45, and registration is below.

All materials supplied. Participants will take home a Japanese pull saw and fencing spec book.

Enter to Win a Yamadori Mountain Hemlock
2025-09-25 - 2025-12-06 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Yamadori Mountain Hemlock

The tree has been in training for almost 15 years and is currently sitting without any wire. The refined oval pot is made by the retired and only apprentice to Yukizou Nakano, his son. Those pots known as Yuuji are all handmade and of the highest quality clay made in the Japanese potting village of Tokoname.
Only 500 tickets sold. Winner will be drawn live on Facebook Saturday, December 6th at 9:15am.
We will send via email an image of your ticket. Thank you! The proceeds from this raffle will help fund the renovation of Tsuru Island.

More About the Pot Origins

Nakano Yukizou, Yuuji’s dad is the founder, and only person of the Gyozan kiln since his son stopped making pots.
Most Gyozan pots are from Nakano, some of those are handmade. Some Gyozan pots are Yuuji, all of his are handmade. Gyozan pots that are made today are made with a mold. They are still made by Nakano, just done so with a uniform shape.
Handmade pots typically have a signature in addition to the chop, but since all of Yuuji’s are handmade, none have an additional signature. There are also seven or more different Gyozan chops, but only one Yuuji.

Purchase with Venmo

Please use the QR Code supplied here, or if you’d like to pay by credit card add the # of tickets in the field below.

Bonsai: Group Kobo
2025-10-03 16:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
We’re excited to unveil Group Kobo, the newest offering in our Art of Bonsai series. This drop‑in workshop invites you to bring your bonsai anytime between 4PM and 8PM, in a relaxed, collaborative environment at the Kyoudou Center. Group Kobo will end at 2pm, so arrive early enough to receive consultation.
Whether you’re refining a bonsai’s shape, practicing wiring, or planning future enhancements, you’ll receive expert guidance from GJG’s bonsai master, Bobby Curttright. alongside a friendly community of fellow enthusiasts.
You will have access to use Bobby’s bonsai tools and wiring supplies. Please note: repotting supplies will not be provided, as repotting is covered in a separate class. Light refreshments will be available.
If you’re planning on dropping in, please bring payment ($20) in cash. We look forward to seeing your creativity enhanced and your knowledge of bonsai strengthened!
NOTE: Kobo means “workshop” in Japanese.

Introduction to Ikebana - October
2025-10-14 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
What to Expect in this Workshop
In Nana Bellerud’s October class, you will focus on color combinations, in particular, autumn colors. It will be fun to see different color combinations give different impressions. We will be using the “ordinary” plant materials that are in bloom to create an extraordinary piece of art. Please join us!
In addition, Bellerud will cover the basic concept, techniques, tools and equipment, and plant care for ikebana. Beyond simply producing a beautiful work of art with flowers and natural objects.
Supplies and tools are onsite to borrow for the workshop. After you’ve worked on your arrangement, you are encouraged to take a photo and then you will dismantle your work. The plant material is yours to take. If you wish to take your creation home in one piece, or are interested in practicing ikebana further, please consider purchasing a kensan and container at the workshop. See below.
Class will be held in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s Kyoudou Center, 219A S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR 97030. The building is located at the south end of Main City Park in Gresham, OR. It is the last building closest to the Springwater Trail. There is a parking lot adjacent to the building.
Kenzan + Container – $30
In ikebana, the two accessories used is a kenzan, or some people say pin frog, and a container. For basic arrangements a shallow container is appropriate. Because ikebana is a practiced art, owning these accessories is a must to further your practice.
Also, if you’d like to preserve the arrangement you created at the workshop, these accessories are available for purchase at the workshop. $30 includes both. Cash, Venmo or check will be accepted.
NOTE: The cost of the workshop includes the use of the instructor’s kensan and container.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Oct-Thurs
2025-10-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Basic Wiring
Overview
This class will focus on basic wiring of bonsai.Wiring a bonsai is an important design technique for shaping a bonsai. The growth and shape of the bonsai is influenced by the wire that is wrapped around the trunk and/or branches. The wired parts are bent in the desired direction. Once the form has solidified, the bonsai wire can be removed.
Slightly more detailed wiring a bonsai is, besides pruning, the most important design technique for forming a bonsai. When forming a bonsai, a normal tree is designed according to a given ideal. The goal is usually that young, not yet developed bonsai tree to look old and venerable.
All materials are provided. Please bring needle nose pliers, wire cutters, and your own bonsai tools if you have them.
NOTE: This bonsai workshop will be taking place in the Gresham Japanese Garden’s greenhouse behind the Kyoudou Center.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today.

2025 The Art of Bonsai: Oct-Sat
2025-10-25 13:00 - 15:00 | Kyoudou Center, 219 S. Main Avenue, Gresham, OR, 97080
Basic Wiring
Overview
This class will focus on basic wiring of bonsai. Wiring a bonsai is an important design technique for shaping a bonsai. The growth and shape of the bonsai is influenced by the wire that is wrapped around the trunk and/or branches. The wired parts are bent in the desired direction. Once the form has solidified, the bonsai wire can be removed.
Slightly more detailed wiring a bonsai is, besides pruning, the most important design technique for forming a bonsai. When forming a bonsai, a normal tree is designed according to a given ideal. The goal is usually that young, not yet developed bonsai tree to look old and venerable.
All materials are provided. Please bring needle nose pliers, wire cutters, and your own bonsai tools if you have them.

NOTE: Due to a rental in the Kyoudou Center, this workshop is being held on the 4th Saturday of the month.
Limited spots available. Secure yours today.
