Bonsai Instructor Registry Committee
Honoring & Elevating Excellence in Teaching
“Being listed in the BCI International Bonsai Instructors Registry is more than a credential. It is a mark of trust bestowed by your peers worldwide — it means member clubs across the globe can call upon you with confidence, knowing you will bring excellence, ethics, and inspiration to their workshops, demonstrations, and exhibitions.”
Purpose & Vision
The BCI International Bonsai Instructors Registry provides member clubs worldwide with a curated list of qualified instructors and teachers who can demonstrate, lead workshops, deliver lectures, and adjudicate competitions on bonsai and related arts. The path to recognition is rigorous because the trust of our member clubs is sacred — and the art itself deserves nothing less.
Why Seek Recognition?
Being endorsed by BCI opens doors that few other credentials can.
Global Prestige
Carry a credential respected by clubs, conventions, and fellow practitioners across every continent.
International Platform
Teach and demonstrate at BCI conventions and events worldwide, connecting with students and cultures across borders.
Visibility & Profile
Your name, photo, and bio featured on the BCI website — visible to clubs and event organizers seeking instructors.
Published Author
Contribute technical articles to BCI Magazine, reaching thousands of enthusiasts and shaping the discourse of the art.
Community of Masters
Join a network of endorsed instructors for collaboration, shared learning, and lifelong friendships forged through the art.
Living Legacy
Every student you inspire carries the art forward. Your teaching becomes part of bonsai’s living history.
The Selection Process
Every application is reviewed with care, respect, and attention to the applicant’s full body of work.
Read the qualifying requirements and submit the online application form
Each committee member individually reviews your application and materials
Consensus or majority vote; final decision rests with the Chair
Receive your BCI certificate and be featured on the BCI website
What We Look For
Think of these not as barriers, but as milestones that demonstrate your dedication to the art and to teaching.
BCI Membership
Must be a BCI Individual member for two years or pay two years membership in advance. Certificates are valid for the membership period and must be renewed.
3 International Solo Demonstrations
Conducted at events organized to bring people from different countries together. These demonstrate your ability to teach across cultures and audiences.
Annual Magazine Article
Willing to author one technical article for BCI Magazine each year, complete with photos or illustrations — sharing your knowledge with thousands.
Volunteer Spirit
Willing to demonstrate or lecture at BCI conventions — not for payment, but because you believe in giving back to the community that shaped you.
What to Include in Your Application
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A biography or CV describing your experience with bonsai, affiliations with clubs, societies, federations, and positions held
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A list of National or International Events at which you have demonstrated, lectured, or led workshops
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Published articles and books on bonsai (if applicable)
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Before and after photos of at least five demonstrations (informal or documentary-quality — both are welcome)
You must be logged in to submit your application. Please allow 60 days to process your request.
Not There Yet? Every Step Counts
The journey to becoming a registered instructor begins long before the application. We celebrate every step along the way.
Teach Locally
Lead demos and workshops at your club. Every student you inspire is a step toward the international stage.
Attend BCI Events
Conventions, regional gatherings, and workshops build your network and expose you to diverse teaching styles.
Start Writing
Share your techniques in club newsletters, online forums, or submit to BCI Magazine. Your voice has value now.
Meet the Committee
The people entrusted with upholding the standard and welcoming the next generation of BCI instructors.
Ready to Step Forward?
If your heart says yes — if you have poured years into refining your craft and your ability to guide others — we would be honored to review your application.
“The true master is not the one who keeps the art — it is the one who gives it away with open hands.”
Questions? Contact us
