With strong foundational education from their first year, students may move on to Year 2 of the School of Bonsai. This curriculum features a more individualized approach as students begin to form their identity as a bonsai practitioner. Whether they prefer to focus on certain species like deciduous cold-hardy varieties, or develop expertise in deadwood carving or refinement wiring, students decide what type of material they will work on. Seminar classes will shift heavily to lecture, demonstration, discussion and group exercises.
In year two, students will need to acquire their own stock material, whether it be from their own collection, new purchases, or borrowed stock from Bonsai West’s collection. Unlike year one, a tree is not included in the cost of the class.
The School meets once every month: 6 Weekend All-Day Seminars and 6 Weekday Evening Guided Workshops.
Full-day Seminars
The Seminar covers more challenging and abstract content . Throughout the year, each student will be dedicated to expanding on their own desired topics.
Half-day Workshops
The Workshop is an opportunity for students to work directly with Michael and Zuma. Bringing their own trees for study, students will document and develop their trees to elevate their personal bonsai collection.
(click here for 2022-2023 dates)
Seminar II
Saturday, May 20, 2023; 11a-5p
Seminar III
Saturday, July 15, 2023; 11a-5p
Seminar IV
Saturday, September 16, 2023; 11a-5p
Seminar V
Saturday, November 11, 2023; 11a-5p
Seminar VI
Saturday, January 13, 2024; 11a-5p
Workshop II
Wednesday, June 14, 2023; 5p-8p
Workshop III
Wednesday, August 9, 2023; 5p-8p
Workshop IV
Wednesday, October 11, 2023; 5p-8p
Workshop V
Wednesday, December 13, 2023; 5p-8p
Workshop VI
Wednesday, February 14, 2024; 5p-8p
NOTE: Some workshop materials are included in school tuition, but students should expect some additional purchases throughout the year (e.g.: pots, special soil blends, etc.).
Payment is non-refundable.
Those interested in enrolling in the School of Bonsai can reach out to Emmy via email: emmy[at]bonsaiwest[dot]com or by calling the nursery during our normal business hours at (978) 486-3556.