Recapping and Tips For Attending the US National Bonsai Exhibition - Ep50

 I. Episode Summary & Links

            In this episode, Kevin, Kelly, and Ryan share their recent experiences attending the 2025 US National Bonsai Exhibition and share their tips that will help you navigate and get the most out of attending this or other similar bonsai conventions.

The YouTube version of Episode 50 is here!

The podcast version of Episode 50 is here!⁠⁠⁠⁠

Sponsor Info:

            This episode is sponsored by (me!) In Vivo Bonsai of Columbus, Ohio, USA. Find me in person, online offerings at ⁠⁠invivobonsai.etsy.com⁠, or go to ⁠⁠www.InVivoBonsai.com⁠ 
⁠to see upcoming events, educational materials, and more.

*Note: We have a variety of pots for sale through In Vivo Bonsai on behalf of our own Kevin Faris. See here and contact Ryan directly for shipping or local pickup in Columbus, OH. They are also on ⁠⁠invivobonsai.etsy.com, but contacting directly will get you the cheapest price.

Mailbag submissions/Community:

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See the relevant images and links from this episode below.

The Allure of Wood-Fired Pottery with Brandon Stolicny - Bonsai Time Podcast Ep 11

            In the eleventh episode of the Bonsai Time Podcast, Connecticut ceramicist and bonsai artist Brandon Stolicny walked Kevin and me through what makes wood-fired pottery so special! Brandon also talked us through the unique challenges that come with wood-fired pots and how his personality influences his style preferences in ceramics and in his bonsai. We also touched on Brandon's experience as a native yamadori collector working with pitch pines in his area of the northeastern US. Enjoy!

Listen to the episode on Youtube.

Or, listen to the episode in your podcast app of choice.

On the Road with Mark Passerrello - Bonsai Time Podcast Ep 08

            In the eighth episode of the Bonsai Time Podcast, my co-host Kevin recorded an interview with CBS president and local potter Mark Passerrello while they were en route to a bonsai workshop. Kevin and Mark went over how Mark found himself in the world of bonsai, his approach to bonsai ceramics, and building confidence in a world full of imposter syndrome as he started his business Ancient Art Bonsai. Mark now regularly sells the pots he makes at local Columbus art events as well as accent plants and bonsai trees for beginner audiences (see pictures below). Kevin and Mark also discussed their experiences with bonsai clubs and how clubs could be made more welcoming to new members as well as Mark's gentle approach to catching the interest of the public during outreach events. Enjoy!

            Mark is one of several prominent bonsai artists who will be in attendance & vending at the upcoming Columbus Bonsai Society 50th Annual Show taking place in September. See here or www.columbusbonsai.org for more information.

Listen to the episode on Youtube.

Or, listen to the episode in your podcast app of choice.

Reflections from April Grigsby, an American Potter's Journey - Bonsai Time Podcast Ep 07

            In the seventh episode of the Bonsai Time Podcast, my co-host Kevin drove to meet April Grigsby of April Grigsby Ceramics in NE Ohio. April Grigsby is a relatively new American bonsai potter on the scene; you can arrange to visit her studio in person through the contact info on her website. They discussed April's diverse background in art and bonsai which has today led to the start of her successful bonsai pottery business. She now travels to many local midwestern shows to sell her handmade traditional Japanese-inspired pots and was even invited by Bill Valavanis to sell at the recent 2021 US National Bonsai Exhibit. Hear some of her special tricks and the work that goes into the pots which are so important to showcasing our trees. Enjoy!

    Note: April is one of several prominent bonsai artists who will be in attendance at the upcoming Columbus Bonsai Society 50th Annual Show taking place in September. See here or www.columbusbonsai.org for more information.

Listen to the episode on Youtube.

Or, listen to the episode in your podcast app of choice.