New From Bonsai Empire: Suzuki and Vallejo Masterclass

It is not easy for me to impartial about this course, which, being partly about my teacher Shinji Suzuki, I naturally think must be good. But it is good.

The new course covers bonsai display. Suzuki and Vallejo are widely regarded as two of the top outdoor bonsai display artists in Japan and Europe. Bonsai Empire’s course is balanced to show a range of approaches, from traditional to modern displays.

Suzuki and Vallejo share in detail and with examples how to organize a bonsai setup outdoors, so we might enjoy our bonsai while watering them.

One thing that caught my attention was Suzuki’s use of concrete examples that yet express emotion. He talks of “an 8-ton Ibigawa stone with junipers flying around like dragons”, among other striking examples from his own garden. 

If you’re a conceptual person, you’ll enjoy Luis Vallejo’s segments. His comments are in great detail, including measurements for stand and bench height. He starts with theory and ends with an actual garden design. 

Drone view of Luis Vallejo’s beautiful modern bonsai Museum in Madrid. 

I was heartened to see Suzuki make suggestions of how to set up a display space on a budget. There are also segments about suiseki, selecting materials, and tips on displaying shohin outdoors within the 4-hour course.

So yes. I did enjoy this course, and I think you might too. To learn more: https://www.bonsaiempire.com/courses/suzuki-masterclass