2026 CBS Annual Show Workshops
Bryan Six with Oasis Bonsai
Artist Bio:
Bryan’s entry into Bonsai began with a gift of a small Portulicaria Afra pre-bonsai from his wife nearly 6 years ago. From that moment on, Bryan was hooked and began immersing himself in acquiring knowledge and developing the necessary skills to develop more of these little trees. Inspired by the forests and rolling hills of Southern Ohio, with the horticultural approach of Mirai Live, Bryan furthered his skill sets by studying under regional, national and International Bonsai artists such as Robert Hoffman, Kevin Farris and Hugo Zamora Luna. Bryan’s immersion into Bonsai has quickly developed him into a highly sought after practitioner of the art form. His passion has led him to recently create Oasis Bonsai of Ohio, a bonsai nursery specializing primarily in conifers and deciduous species. His journey has also led him into collection expeditions regionally and as far as Louisiana to bring back beautiful Bald Cypress specimens that are now transitioning into Bonsai. Bryan is an award winning artist and is always eager and willing to share his knowledge
Workshop Description:
BYOT - Advanced Level - Ribbon Live Vein building and Deadwood Creation on Junipers
This bring-your-own-tree workshop welcomes beginners to experienced bonsai students and practitioners. Join Bryan for an immersive hands-on class designed to strengthen skills and deepen understanding of this important element of bonsai design. The session focuses on advanced concepts introduced as appropriate for Junipers. Participants will gain confidence through guided instruction, demonstration, and practical application.
Workshop Details:
Due to the intense and intricate work that will be done during this workshop we can offer only 6 spots. This will help insure that the work being done will stand the test of time visually and horticulturally.
Bring Your Own Tree (Juniper)--don’t forget your tools and supplies. Live vein and carving tools will be supplied during workshop instruction. If you would like to purchase a Juniper for this workshop, please contact Bryan directly at: bryansix52oh@gmail.com in advance of the show
Pricing:
CBS Members: $80
Non-CBS Members: $100
Workshop: Sunday, Noon – 2pm, WS Space 1
Jason Parish with Kawa No Oka Bonsai
Jason was introduced to bonsai by accident back in 1997, after coming across a bonsai kit in a mall. The idea and the culture interested him. While the kit sadly never amounted to anything, it did inspire him to start learning more about bonsai. Jason scoured all the local libraries for any books he could find on the subject. Unfortunately the internet was not a source yet back then! Jason learned everything he could on his own and began increasing his plant knowledge and learning to care for the trees. Several years later Jason came across someone while working that had bonsai in their yard. They helped him to find and join the Indianapolis Bonsai Club. Jason was able to meet people involved in the art/hobby. This gave him the chance to greatly increase his knowledge and skills. In the years since that encounter, he has been learning everything about bonsai that he could. In 2021, Jason decided that it was time to move his hobby forward. Jason left his job of 20 years to pursue his passion of propagating, raising, styling and selling bonsai for a living. It has been an amazing adventure that continues to grow every day. Jason’s goal for the future is to help those that have an interest to get started into the hobby. Jason remembers how hard it was when he started. It is Jason’s desire to create high quality pre-bonsai and bonsai that are affordable to anyone with the interest.
Artist Bio:
Workshop Description:
Trident Maple Development and Refinement through Seasonal Techniques
Join us for a hands-on Trident Maple workshop focused on developing and refining your tree through key seasonal techniques. During this session, we will work on defoliation to manage growth and improve overall structure, as well as begin initial styling to establish direction and form. Time permitting, we will also introduce thread grafting techniques and discuss when and how they can be applied in future development. In addition, general care practices including watering, light, and seasonal maintenance will be covered to support long-term health. Please note that repotting will not be performed during this workshop, as it is not the appropriate time of year; trees will need to be repotted in the spring for best results.
Workshop Details:
This will be a hands-on workshop geared toward intermediate learners, so participants should have some basic familiarity with bonsai techniques. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own tools, including bonsai scissors or pruning shears, concave cutters, wire cutters, and a selection of bonsai wire if available. While a limited number of tools may be available to share, bringing your own will ensure you are able to fully participate throughout the session. If time allows and we move into thread grafting techniques, a drill and appropriate bits will be available for use during the workshop.
Pricing:
CBS Members: $95
Non-CBS Members: $115
Workshop: Sunday, 11am – 1pm, WS Space 2
Ken Huth with Ken’s World of Bonsai
Ken’s entry into Bonsai began over 30 years ago. Ken started working on a farm when he was just 11 years old. Ken has always been interested plants and trees. Ken entered a local Mall in the late 80’s and saw bonsai on display; he was instantly amazed and started his journey. Ken welcomes the opportunity to meet new folks and the experiences bonsai invites! Ken’s accumulated knowledge and experiences has molded him into an accomplished artist and bonsai nurseryman growing and supplying pre-bonsai and bonsai material across a wide spectrum of species. Ken’s specialties among a variety of species and styles include: Erodium Bonsai (Mame’), Japanese Black Pine, Shimpaku Juniper, Tamarack- American Larch, Trident Maple, Azalea, Bald Cypress, Japanese Yew, and so much more. Ken is highly sought after for his thoughtful and engaging workshops/demonstrations across the Mid-west and at both regional and national events.
Artist Bio:
Workshop Description:
Erodium as Bonsai
Ken’s workshop welcomes beginners to experienced bonsai practitioners. Join Ken for a hands-on class designed to strengthen skills and deepen understanding of the essential elements of bonsai design and bonsai health. The session focuses on targeted concepts that are appropriate for Erodium. Participants will gain confidence through guided instruction, demonstration, and practical application.
Workshop Details:
Trees will be provided for this workshop along with soil, and mame’ pots--don’t forget to bring your tools and supplies. Some tools and wire may be available during the workshop.
Pricing:
CBS Members: $50
Non-CBS Members: $70
Workshop: Sunday, 10am - Noon, WS Space 1
Kevin Faris
Artist Bio:
Kevin’s journey into the world of Bonsai began at an early age, growing up in the Pacific Northwest, surrounded by Nature’s incredible forests blanketing the Cascade Mountains. Kevin took this initial love of nature and entered the world of bonsai over ten years ago. Kevin immersed himself by studying under such recognized bonsai artists as Ryan Neil, Michael Hagedorn, Todd Schlafer, Chase Rosade, and many others. Kevin’s journey led him to Columbus, Ohio, where he graduated from The Ohio State University, with a BS degree in Agriculture, focused in Horticulture. Kevin’s practical Bonsai experiences, artistic eye, combined with his scientific studies bring a unique blend to develop and maintain healthy, vibrant, and award winning Bonsai. While completing his studies in Columbus, Kevin worked with many local CBS members to further the artistic expression of their trees. Such work resulted in a CBS club member earning Best Conifer, People’s Choice Award, and the Medal of Merit from the American Bonsai Society for a 50 year old Mugo Pine, at the 2024 Columbus Bonsai Society Annual Show. Kevin’s passion for bonsai inspired him to co-found the Bonsai Time Podcast, where he and his colleagues interview some of the most influential bonsai artists and contributors supporting this art form. Kevin currently resides in New England, where he continues to share his knowledge of Bonsai, and offering workshops throughout the region. He and his young family are currently planning their move to Japan where their lives will begin a new chapter.
Workshop Description:
BYOT
This bring-your-own-tree workshop welcomes both beginner and experienced bonsai students. Join Kevin Faris for an immersive, hands-on class designed to strengthen skills and deepen understanding of bonsai development. The session focuses on essential late spring seasonal work, with advanced concepts introduced as appropriate for each tree. Participants will gain confidence through guided instruction, demonstration, and practical application.
Join Kevin in this unique workshop experience before he leaves for Japan.
Workshop Details:
Bring 1–3 of your best or worst trees — don’t forget your tools and supplies. If any trees, tools, or wire are needed, some will be available to use.
Pricing:
CBS Members: $45
Non-CBS Members: $55
Workshop: Saturday, Noon – 2pm, WS Space 1
Mark Arpag
Artist Bio:
Mark Arpag is an award winning Bonsai Artist living in Rochester, New York. He is a long time active member & current President of the Bonsai Society of Upstate New York. Mark is a co-founder and organizer of the Suiseki Study Group of Upstate New York. Additionally he presents demonstrations and workshops where he freely shares his knowledge and passion for bonsai with others. He also has several study groups & private clients that often coordinate with Club visits. Mark often assists Wm. N. Valavanis teaching and organizing exhibitions. His love of nature leads him to collect trees and stones in New York State which he often combines to create distinctive award winning displays.
Mark has won National Awards for his Eastern White Cedar, Balsam Fir and Larch and has a passion for Native Bonsai and Stones. Shohin bonsai and bonsai display are of interest to him and he spends a considerable time studying and practicing display and creating shohin bonsai. He has a large and fine quality collection of shohin bonsai as well as larger size trees.
Mark has displayed Bonsai at the Artisans Cup, the Pacific Expo and all 8 US National Exhibitions and has also enjoyed designing & installing all of the Welcome Gardens that greet visitors from around the world. Mark’s bonsai have won National awards in 2010 2nd US National Exhibition, 2011 BCI Award Native Exhibition, 2014 4th US National Exhibition, 2018 6th US National Exhibition, 2 Awards @ 2019 2nd US National Shohin Exhibition, 2022 ABS Creative Display Shohin, 2023 8th US National Exhibition. His Bonsai have been featured in numerous albums, books and magazines. His articles have been published in the ABS Journal, BCI Journal and International Bonsai magazine.
Workshop Description:
Walking Guided Tour & Critique (Sunday Morning at 9am)
Mark’s keen eye, deep knowledge of bonsai development, and artistic expression will be shared in this unique opportunity. Mark will offer his insights and guidance on how each exhibited tree can be potentially further developed and enhanced while encouraging the artistic expression of each exhibitor.
Japanese Black Pine (styling and creating bonsai from 7 -8 year old stock)
Japanese Black Pine trees will be provided for this workshop. All skill levels are welcome. Join Mark for a hands-on workshop designed to strengthen skills and encourage your artistic expression, an important element of bonsai design. The session focuses on intermediate concepts as appropriate for this tree species. Participants will gain confidence through guided instruction, demonstration, practical application and artistic encouragement.
Live Demonstration (tree TBD)
Mark will provide a unique opportunity for bonsai enthusiasts to watch, learn and ask questions as he creates in new bonsai from rough stock.
BYOT
This bring-your-own-tree workshop welcomes beginners, intermediates and experienced bonsai enthusiasts. Join Mark for an immersive, hands-on workshop designed to strengthen skills and deepen understanding of bonsai development and artistic style. The session focuses on essential development skills and design elements, with advanced concepts introduced as appropriate for each specific tree. Participants will gain confidence through guided instruction, demonstration, practical application and artistic encouragement.
Workshop Details:
Japanese Black Pine Workshop—JBP trees will be provided, don’t forget your tools and supplies.
BYOT Workshop—Bring your best or most challenging tree, don’t forget your tools and supplies.
Pricing:
Japanese Black Pine
CBS Members: $200
Non-CBS Members: $240
Workshop: Saturday, 2pm – 5pm, WS Space 1
Walking Guided Tour & Critique
CBS Members: $20
Non-CBS Members: $30
Bonsai Gallery: Sunday, 9am – 10am, Bonsai Gallery
Live Demonstration
Free to all attendees
Demonstration: Sunday, 10am – 1pm, Public Area
BYOT
CBS Members: $100
Non-CBS Members: $120
Workshop: Sunday, 2pm – 5pm, WS Space 1
Mark Passerrello with Ancient Art Bonsai
Artist Bio:
Mark is often asked what drew him to bonsai. He was always interested in plants, and had a corner in his parent’s vegetable garden for himself from a young age. An interest in Japanese culture and history-spurred by the novel and TV series Shogun-combined with his horticultural bent, put him on the path that he’s been happily following up to this day. Mark’s first exposure to bonsai was a Brooklyn Botanical Garden guide book from the library, and he was instantly captivated by the photos of small trees, as was the custom back in those days , they were posed in front of a wrist watch or pack of cigarettes to show scale. Mark’s focus from the start was on smaller sizes of bonsai-miniature miniatures!
Mark has been growing bonsai for more than thirty years now, and most recently started messing with clay about 6 years ago. Clay is a very familiar material and ceramic objects are something people interact with every day, it can be very surprising to work with clay and find out how unpredictable and complicated this commonplace stuff can be. In some ways it’s exactly like bonsai, the clay can have a mind of its own just the way a live plant seems to! Mark’s exploration of clay began specifically to make pots for bonsai, as well as containers for the companion plants that are part of a traditional bonsai display.
There are terms in Japanese that describe a certain aesthetic sense and reflect the Japanese notions of acceptance of change and the fleeting nature of life and beauty: wabi and sabi. Like the feeling of wabi and sabi, this concept naturally flows from the handmade pieces that he creates. They have a rugged and organic feeling, and are clearly one of a kind and made by a person in a workshop, not an automated process in a factory. If you look, sometimes you will see the maker’s fingerprints still preserved in the fired clay. Mark has been making a lot of very weathered, battered looking pots built up with stacked strips of clay and sporting irregular edges and walls and corners that are not even or straight. In his mind it’s as if they have been lying buried for many years underground. He calls this style” ibutsu” the Japanese word for relic.
Workshop Description:
Olive Trees
The Olive tree and its various products-fruit, oil, lumber-are very familiar and have been connected with human activity for millennia. This well-known tree makes excellent bonsai! This session will focus on initial creation of the bonsai and laying a foundation for future growth and development. During this session, we will place a tree in a ceramic bonsai pot, and begin initial styling to establish direction and form. We will emphasize a type of training called clip-and-grow, which uses careful pruning and the plant’s natural growth habit to shape the bonsai. In addition, general care practices including watering, light, and seasonal maintenance will be covered to support long-term health.
Workshop Details:
This will be a hands-on workshop geared toward beginning bonsai growers. Previous plant experience is helpful but not essential. Each participant will receive a live, growing olive tree, an appropriate handmade ceramic pot and a pair of bonsai scissors to keep. Additional materials like soil will be supplied.
Pricing:
CBS Members: $70
Non-CBS Members: $90
Workshop: Sunday, 1pm – 3pm, WS Space 2
Ryan Huston with In Vivo Bonsai
Artist Bio:
Ryan Huston started exploring the art of bonsai at the young age of 8 when he first encountered the bonsai collection at the Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus, Ohio. From that day on, Ryan always had at least a handful of pre-bonsais he was learning to keep alive. Much later when pursuing his undergraduate degree from the University of Washington, Ryan was inspired to further explore the art of bonsai and began volunteering at the Elandan Gardens under the famous Master Bonsai Artist Dan Robinson. Dan is known for his unique style which emphasizes ancient trees as he has seen them in nature including prominent deadwood and gnarly branches Dan has also been a long-time collector of US native species and these preferences were deeply ingrained in Ryan’s bonsai practices. One of Ryan’s favorite bonsai-related activities is camping in exotic places around the US and collecting naturally stunted trees wherever it is legal. Exploring such natural spaces also has the compounded benefit of providing inspiration, helping Ryan understand forests and species-specific nuances around the country in their native environments. Ryan has since continued his educational pursuits in bonsai by starting YouTube channels for the Puget Sound Bonsai Association and Columbus Bonsai Society to share artist demonstrations, co-founding the Bonsai Time Podcast, and giving lectures and demonstrations for public events. Now that Ryan has moved back home to Columbus for the Microbiology Ph.D. program at The Ohio State University, when not studying he is focused on advancing his trees, studying and collecting native species in Ohio, and sharing his extensive knowledge and love for the art of bonsai wherever possible.
Workshop Description:
Wild Collected Elms and Naturalistic Deciduous
This workshop welcomes both beginner and experienced bonsai enthusiasts. Join Ryan for an immersive, hands-on class designed to strengthen skills and deepen understanding of bonsai development. The session focuses on essential attributes for deciduous species.
Workshop Details:
Elm trees will be provided— don’t forget to bring your tools and supplies. If tools or wire are needed,some will be available to use during the workshop instruction.
Pricing:
CBS Members: $70 (small); $190 (large)
Non-CBS Members: $80 (small); $210 (large)
BYOT or Borrow a tree—
CBS Members: $35
Non-CBS Members: $40
Workshop: Saturday, 1pm – 3pm, WS Space 2
Trey Gilmore with Kota Bonsai
Artist Bio:
Trey’s travels across the country and around the world have inspired his artistic expression in his bonsai creations. Trey’s interests and immersion into the art form, has led him to develop a significant skills and knowledge base for some of the more unusual species not normally found in this part of the country. Trey founded Kota Bonsai after just a few short years of diving into the world of bonsai. Being the perfect blend of science, art, and a high level of craft it was evident this would be the hobby for him. Tack on two young children at home, and knowing he needed a hobby which wouldn’t remove him from the house; bonsai became not just a hobby, but a refreshing and enjoyable reprieve from the busyness and chaos of life. As he started to learn more and more, the idea of a small shop curated with some of his trees and inspiring others through workshops was born. Trey hope’s with each tree (or workshop) you’ll get a small sense of gratitude, enjoyment, and beauty.
Workshop Description:
Primo Thuja (styling and creating your own bonsai)
Primo Thuja trees will be provided for this workshop. All skill levels are welcome from beginners to experienced practitioners. Join Trey for a hands-on class designed to strengthen skills and encourage your artistic expression, an important element of bonsai design. The session focuses on beginner to intermediate concepts as appropriate for this tree species. Participants will gain confidence through guided instruction, demonstration, and practical application.
Workshop Details:
Tree is included. Don’t forget your tools and supplies. Some tools will be available during workshopinstruction.
Pricing:
CBS Members: $95 (small); $140 (large)
Non-CBS Members: $115 (small); $160 (large)
Workshop: Saturday, 10am - Noon, WS Space 1
