Michael was first introduced to bonsai during an elementary school field trip to Phipps
Conservatory in Pittsburgh, PA. He was completely captivated and fascinated by the small
trees in pots. He was absolutely hooked. Soon after that field trip his aunt and uncle purchased
for him a juniper, and the hobby continued for over the years.
In 2008, Michael went with his wife and parents to Epcot to see the International Flower and
Garden Festival. The same fascination that hit him when he was a child had struck again when
they reached the Japan Pavilion. The trees in the show were amazing. It was at that point that
Michael knew that he wanted to give bonsai another try, and his passion for bonsai had been
renewed. Immediately after that show Michael began to research everything that he could
about the art of bonsai and the Bonsai Societies of Florida (BSF).
Since that visit to Epcot, Michael has joined two bonsai clubs. He is a member of the Kawa
Bonsai Society and the Central Florida Bonsai Club. Through each of these clubs he has had
the opportunity to meet great people and learn about the art of bonsai. He has been very
fortunate to work and study with highly acclaimed artists over the years such as Peter Warren,
Suthin Sukosolvisit, Ryan Neil, Sean Smith, Robert Mahler, Guy Guidry, Mary Madison, Michael
Feduccia, Louise Leister, and Mike Rogers. It is because of these artists, teachers, and
mentors that he has a very diversified background, and a strong knowledge base in the art of
bonsai. Michael is proficient in pines, junipers, azaleas, maples, and many tropical species of
bonsai.
Michael has won several awards at the Bonsai Societies of Florida annual state convention, and
at the Kawa Bonsai Society’s annual Joy of Bonsai show. In addition, Michael won 2nd place in
the 2014 BSF Scholarship competition during the state convention. He chose to use his
scholarship prize to continue his intensive studies with Peter Warren. Michael has also had the
honor of having trees selected to be displayed at the Japan Pavilion during the 2014 and 2015
International Flower and Garden Festival. This was especially important to him because he was
the first Disney Cast Member to have a tree selected for the show.
Michael is available for demonstrations, workshops, critiques, collection maintenance, and
private/group instruction. He is willing to travel throughout the state of Florida, and to stay at
club members’ homes.
Awards
2013 Bonsai Societies of Florida Convention – Best Chuhin Tree
2014 Joy of Bonsai Shohin – Kawa Club Award
2014 Bonsai Societies of Florida Convention – Best Small Tree in Show
2014 Bonsai Societies of Florida Convention – 2nd place in the New Talent Scholarship Competition
2015 Joy of Bonsai – Best Display