The generational tides of bonsai evolution have generated influential figures from bonsai’s birth in the West with figures such as Yuji Yoshimura and John Naka. However, as bonsai has evolved, the newer generation is producing its own string of influential teachers and professionals in the realm of bonsai. Peter Warren sits at the top of this up and coming group of modern bonsai practitioners. Having studied under world-renowned bonsai professional Kunio Kobayashi of Tokyo, Japan for nearly six years, Peter is part of a new breed of bonsai professional who posses the knowledge and technique of the Japanese bonsai approach, yet also strives to apply these skills to the varied cultures of bonsai as it’s practiced in countries around the world. His most recent project titled “Natural Flux” involved meshing bonsai with mixed-media art. His experimental exhibition was presented in the Brick Lane Gallery in London in 2013, drawing attention and accolades throughout the art world. Among the world of bonsai professionals, perhaps no other artist has as diverse of a knowledge and skill set as Peter Warren and we are honored to have him as a primary judge for the first Artisans cup.
Here's a recent chat we had with Peter when we asked him to share a bit about himself and his work.
Where are you from?
Originally from Yorkshire, but now living in London, UK when I am at home.
How would you describe your approach to bonsai? (Western style, traditional style, anywhere in between)
In my own work I aspire to recreate the feeling of elegance, freedom and depth of character that Japanese trees had a hundred years ago. I also tend to favour the unusual and unique over clean and overly refined. Being a professional however I try to blend my style with that of the client and work with them to make their ideal tree.
What inspired you to begin bonsai?
Seeing them in Japan for the first time. Their power, age, life force and sheer beauty captivated me and I was amazed at these massive trees in tiny pots. Frankly it was pretty damn freaky.
What is your least favorite part of being a bonsai professional?
Being away from home and my collection
What is your favorite part of being a bonsai professional?
Working with regular clients/students and seeing them and their trees progress over time.
Where is the craziest place you’ve traveled for bonsai work?
Mirai
How many days on the road traveling for work do you spend in a year, on average?
Please don't ask me that...over half the year at a rough guess.
What do you feel like you are “known for” in bonsai? What’s your signature as a bonsai professional?
I don't know, I dread to think. My signature is hopefully a trail of living trees that are continually improving.
What is your favorite North American species and why?
Ponderosa Pine for their flexibility, bark and smell, Rocky Mountain Junipers for their deadwood, movement and potential for being world class, Any Spruce because they are Spruce. I hate picking favourites because each species has something about it that makes it special. I love all trees. Especially the ugly ones.
Why are you excited to be a judge at the Artisans Cup?
It represents a potential sea change in American Bonsai and it will send ripples across the international bonsai world and hopefully into the non Bonsai community. Ryan has poured his heart and soul into this project in an attempt to make Bonsai better, to bring professionalism and quality to a new level. I sincerely hope that the bonsai enthusiasts of the US will be up to the challenge and participate with pride, a sense of community and a desire to see the art form they love improve and be recognised by others.
Why should people submit trees to the Artisans Cup?
To be part of such a movement, to share their love of bonsai and to show off their work to a wider audience. Pride, professionalism and personality should be apparent in the trees and their display, pushing artistic conventions and asking questions to the rest of the bonsai community.
Learn more about Peter Warren on his website and see him at The Artisans Cup this fall!
