1. PRESENTATION AND OBJECTIVES

FELABBRASIL 2026 is an international event characterized by cultural and artistic exchange through bonsai exhibitions, demonstrations with renowned artists, workshops, and the sale of related materials.

With the aim of honoring and highlighting the quality of the exhibited trees, the Organizing Committee of the XV International Bonsai Congress FELAB BRASIL 2026 is pleased to announce the FELAB BRAZIL 2026 BONSAI COMPETITION, which will take place at the Positivo Events Center, Barigui Park, Curitiba (PR), between the days November 6th and 8th, 2026.

2. ABOUT THE COMPETITION

The main objective of the competition is to recognize plants of technical and artistic quality, evaluated by judges present at the Congress and previously nominated, who will choose the specimens in their specific categories based on technical criteria.

The regulations will govern the rules of the competition, the interpretation and application of which are the sole responsibility of the Organizing Committee.

2.1 PARTICIPATION AND TARGET AUDIENCE

Amateur and professional bonsai artists of any nationality may participate in the competition, provided they are registered for the XV International Bonsai Congress FELAB BRASIL 2026, observing the following criteria:

• Completion of the registration form through the form available on the website www.felabbrasil.com.br;
• The requested photos must be attached to the same form and subsequently validated by the committee within five business days of submission. Validation does not guarantee participation in the contest.
• The organization reserves the right to refuse applications that do not meet the criteria mentioned in these regulations.

2.2 REGISTRATION

The registration period will begin at 00:01 on March 1, 2026 and will end at 00:01 on August 1, 2026Registration must be done exclusively through an electronic form provided by the organization.

The following information will be requested in the form:

a) Tree Data

• Scientific and common name of the species;
• Measurements (excluding the vase), as specified in the form:
  • Height (criterion for category): From the top edge of the pot (base of the trunk) to the top of the tree (including the "jin," if present);
  • Canopy width: Essential measure for planning counter space;
  • Crown depth: For bench depth planning.

b) Digital photographs (JPEG, PDF or PNG, max. 5MB each)

• A front-facing photograph of the tree;
• They should reflect the tree's current appearance;
• Sharp focus, plain background (light or white), without distracting people or objects;
• File identification: FirstNameLastName01.jpg, FirstNameLastName02.jpg, and so on.

Attention: Images altered using software (Photoshop) or generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) will not be permitted. Violation will result in disqualification.

2.3 Plants per participant

Each participant may register up to 5 (five) specimens (bonsai, forests or landscapes), regardless of category, may be selected up to 3 (three) parts.

2.4 SELECTION PROCESS

The selection of trees will be made by the Congress Organizing Committee, taking into account compliance with the requirements established in these regulations and the space available for exhibition.

2.5 SELECTION RESULT

The results will be published on the website www.felabbrasil.com.br on [date]. August 15, 2026.

3. CATEGORIES AND AWARDS

3.1 Categories by Size
Prizes for 1st and 2nd place.

• Mame (Mini): Up to 12 cm;
• Shohin (Small): From 12.1 to 25 cm;
• Kifu (Medium): From 25.1 to 40 cm;
• Chuhin (Medium/Large): From 40.1 to 60 cm;
• Dai (Grande): From 60.1 to 100 cm;
• Ogata (Extra Large): Above 100 cm.

Notes:

• Bonsai in the Kengai (cascade) style should be measured from the apex to the lowest point of the crown;
• There will be a tolerance of up to 0.5 cm at the time of delivery;
• If the item does not fit into the registered category, it will be automatically reassigned to the corresponding category, subject to space availability.

3.2 Other Categories
Prize for 1st place

• Forests (groups of trees);
• Landscapes (compositions with trees, stones and other elements);
• Best Presentation (minimum of 3 elements: Bonsai, painting – Kakejiku – and accent plant – Kusamono –, suiseki or ornamental object).

3.3 Categories by Tree Type
Prize for 1st place

• Best Bonsai of Native Brazilian Species;
• Best Conifer Bonsai;
• Best Bonsai for Deciduous Trees;
• Best Evergreen Bonsai.

4. AWARDS

4.1 Special Awards and Trophies

• Carlos Tramujas Award (Bonsai do Campo);
• Ryuga Prize;
• WORBAC Award (World Bonsai Artists Community);
• WBFF Award (World Bonsai Friendship Federation);
• BCI Award (Bonsai Clubs International);
• Literato Award (Best vase in the exhibition);
• UBE Award (Unión del Bonsái Español).

4.2 Top Prize – Best Tree of the Event (Best in Show)

All trees participating in the event, including professional and demonstrator trees, are included in this category. The selection will be made by Master Kunio Kobayashi.

The award will be announced and presented during the Gala Dinneron the day November 7, 2026 (Saturday).

6. JURY AND EVALUATION CRITERIA

The judging panel will consist of demonstrators from the event and personalities of recognized reputation in the world of bonsai. The judging will be independent and confidential, and the decisions will be irrevocable.

The evaluation will be based on points, using criteria from prestigious international competitions, such as those held by the UBE (Unión del Bonsai Español).

Aspects Evaluated:

• Health and Vitality: Vigor and absence of pests/diseases;
• Design and Aesthetic Conformity: Harmony, body line, structure and visual balance;
• Refinement and Technique: Discreet wiring, precise pruning, and fine branching;
• Final Presentation: Quality of the vase, set with accessories, and overall cleanliness.

7. REGULATIONS FOR THE EXHIBITION

1. Anonymous Identification: The owner's identity will only be revealed after the award ceremony.
2. Mandatory Presentation: Tabletop, base, or mat for use. Accessories are optional, except for specific categories.
3. Plant Integrity: Only healthy plants.
4. Framing: Excessively visible wires will not be permitted.
5. Substrate and Pot: They must be clean and intact.
6. Assembly: Participant's responsibility.
7. Watering: Conducted by the organization, with participant supervision.
8. Prohibitions: Publish photos before the official opening or change the setup after inspection.
9. Penalties: Failure to comply will result in the inability to exhibit.