Guest Master
Peter Warren



I first came across Bonsai in 2002 whilst in Japan, taking a year out after studying Astrophysics at University.  I began to take a weekly class at the garden of Kobayashi Kunio, one of the most famous Bonsai masters in Japan.  I was captivated by the beauty and the intrigue of Bonsai and wanted to study more, leading me to become a full time apprentice under Mr. Kobayashi.  During my time as an apprentice I learned a wide range of techniques and ways of thinking regarding not only Bonsai but display, suiseki, pots and life in general.  I completed my apprenticeship and still regularly return to Japan to help out at the nursery and further my education.  Since 2007 I have been travelling the world teachng Bonsai and working with some of the best trees in the US, Europe and Japan.

My philosophy on Bonsai is every changing, which is only natural as Bonsai is an ever changing art form. I approach it from a tree-first / me-second perspective in that rather than forcing my pre-conceived ideas onto the tree, I will look to see what characteristics the tree has and look to bring them out.  This idea also means that the health of the tree is paramount and I do not mind waiting if it is necessary to do so.

I favour elegance and grace over power and size; the trees which I like to create are perhaps more classical and I do not look to put my stamp on it.  Subtle, natural beauty and age are the characteristic I look for in a tree and a lack of ego or contrivance, particularly in their display.

You can check out his website at: Saruyama Professional Bonsai and Suiseki