Potomac Bonsai Festival 2012
Biographical Information on Featured Artists
Each year the Potomac Bonsai Festival invites well-known bonsai artists to attend and enrich the festival’s activities. This year we are fortunate to have two visiting guest artists to share their talent with us in workshops and demonstrations.
Harry Hirao
Known as ‘Mr. California Juniper’, Harry Hirao is a master in the art of bonsai. His love for bonsai began in the late 1950’s when he studied with another famous master, John Naka. He earned his title ‘Mr. California Juniper’ by collecting and creating masterpiece juniper bonsai, two of which can be seen in the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum. In addition to being active in many California bonsai organizations, he is also an honorary member of the National Bonsai Foundation. Selected trees and viewing stones of Harry’s are on permanent display at the National Arboretum, the Golden State Bonsai Collection, and the Huntington Library and Botanical Garden. His kind and giving spirit makes Harry a friend to all who meet him. Harry Hirao turns 95 this year and remains active in his passion for bonsai and viewing stones.
Suthin Sukolosvisit
Suthin is one of the premier bonsai artists in the world. He is especially known for his work with shohin, but his expertise also includes Japanese maples, black pine, and root-over-rock styles. Being from Thailand, he also has extensive experience with tropical bonsai. His bonsai are known for their proportion, refinement and detail.
He and his wife operate the Royal Bonsai Garden, Inc. in Stoughton, Massachusetts, a full-service bonsai nursery where he also teaches. Suthin lectures throughout the United States and internationally, and is known as an excellent instructor, always eager to share new information and techniques. He has been practicing bonsai for over 40 years.
Quick Links: Workshops and Demonstrations, Free Ongoing Activities, Tools List
Back to the Arboretum Home Page
Last Updated February 2, 2012 9:13 AM
URL = http://www.usna.usda.gov/Education/biopage.html