Featured Instructors
David Nguy
David Nguy is well known for his work with California Junipers and Black Pines. His 35+ years of experience includes studying with sensei Harry Hirao, Ben Oki, Ernie Kuo, and Masahiko Kimura in Japan. David’s skills and advanced techniques can be found in his signature trees and has been referred to as “Mr. California Juniper” by the Golden State Bonsai Federation.
Currently a featured instructor, David travels the world to preside over shows, conduct demonstrations, and oversee workshops at various clubs and international exhibitions.
Julian Tsai
Julian Tsai is a full-time bonsai professional and artist based out of Southern California. In 2018, Tsai began an apprenticeship in Osaka, Japan under Keiichi Fujikawa of Fujikawa Kouka-en.
After returning to the US, Julian furthered his skillset by learning from professionals Peter Tea and John Wang. In 2022, he launched his career as a full-time bonsai professional, launching his business "Just Bonsai."
Today, he collaborates with customers, works on collections, and provides educational services.
"Bonsai, in its origin, is a multi-generational practiced art. That is to say in both respects, the medium (the tree) and practice exceeds the human lifespan. Trees, like us, are living and thus constantly changing and growing. Just as we strive to continuously learn and improve our own lives, we can adopt similar principles which bring the best out of our trees.
- Philosophy of Julian Tsai
Steve Iwaki
Steve Iwaki is a second-generation bonsai artist. His father, Ted Iwaki, was one of the founding members of the California Bonsai Society in the 1950’s. Steve’s personal bonsai journey began over 30 years ago when he discovered a bonsai class at a local recreation center. It was taught by Japanese gardeners, much like the group his father socialized with when he was growing up. Today, Steve is the president Sei Boku Bonsai Kai in San Mateo and regularly displays, collects, teaches, and demonstrates throughout California.
At this meeting, Steve will be helping intermediate attendees style 20 year old multi-truck collected boxwoods into an oak-style bonsai. The small leaves and fine-fissured bard on boxwoods make them ideal for bonsai material.