Bonsai Mirai: Asymmetry

Bonsai Mirai
  • 4.8 (171)
  • VISUAL ARTS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Bonsai Mirai is a company, a place, a practice, an ecosystem of creators. This is our outlet for discussion of all things bonsai and beyond.

  1. AUG 27

    Art, Science, and Bonsai with Brock Arvesen

    We introduce Brock Arvesen, one of the new faces at Mirai. Splitting his time between Mirai and the Pacific Bonsai Museum, Brock brings a perspective shaped by both worlds. In this episode, he joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on art, nature, and bonsai. Together we dive into the aesthetics of the craft as well as the science that grounds it—a thoughtful dialogue bridging creativity and biology you won’t want to miss.   Start your 7-day free trial of Mirai Mobile and explore all it has to offer!

    1h 45m

  2. AUG 13

    Design in Collaboration with Thomas Nevar

    We sat down with artist, designer, and creative director Thomas Nevar—a long-time creative and collaborator with Mirai. Together, we explore the intersection of art and bonsai, unpacking the motivations, inspirations, and ideas that shape their work. From the shared language of design to the pursuit of meaning in creative practice, this conversation offers an intimate look at how collaboration fuels both vision and craft. Explore Thomas Nevar’s Sculptural Kusamono collection, now available on Mirai Goods. Start your 7-day free trial of Mirai Mobile and explore all it has to offer!

    1h 31m

  3. AUG 6

    Meet Brandon Roberts: Mirai’s New Apprentice

    Brandon Roberts joins us at the very beginning of his apprenticeship—already having demonstrated exceptional commitment with a six-hour round trip, twice a week, for three months, just to study bonsai at Mirai. In this open and thoughtful conversation, we explore the meaning of apprenticeship: its gravity, its rewards, and the vulnerability of sharing it publicly. Brandon brings a contagious energy that reignites the passion behind the practice, reminding us of the purpose that drives this path. This episode marks week one of what we hope will be a long and meaningful chapter—an origin story, a time capsule, and the start of a pursuit that will echo through the work, the trees, and the small moments in between.

    1h 33m

  4. JUL 16

    The Art and Elegance of Kusamono with Young Choe

    We reconnect with the incomparable Young Choe—artist, pioneer, and one of the hardest working creatives in the world of kusamono. Reflecting on our first-ever Kusamono Intensive at Mirai, Young shares insights from the three-day workshop that brought five dedicated students into the world of contextual planting like never before. Together, we explore her visionary approach to kusamono as a refined, accessible art form, one she’s shaping into a creative discipline and even a profession. This conversation dives deep into artistic identity, the rigor of creative pursuit, and the soft power of plants to tell stories. We’re honored to continue collaborating with Young and to witness her ongoing journey as a global leader in this evolving practice.   Explore Young’s Artistry Here.    Start your 7-day free trial of Mirai Mobile and explore all it has to offer!

    1h 13m

  5. JUN 25

    Beyond Form: Architecture, Bonsai, and the Creative Mind with Gus Lynch

    In this long-anticipated conversation, we welcome architect Gus Lynch of the renowned firm Olson Kundig to Asymmetry. What begins as a dialogue about architecture unfolds into something far more expansive—an exploration of creativity, design, and the unexpected intersections between built environments and the living art of bonsai. As a student at Mirai and a professional in one of the world’s most visionary architectural practices, Gus brings a rare perspective shaped by both precision and organic process. This episode marks the beginning of a deeper collaboration and opens the door to more questions than answers—just the way we like it. Thought-provoking, inspiring, and far too brief, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.   Start your 7-day free trial of Mirai Mobile and explore all it has to offer!

    1h 4m

  6. APR 30

    The Impact of Change with Dominic Maze

    We sat down with Dominic Maze, Environmental Regulatory Coordinator for the City of Portland, for a conversation that took us places we never expected. What began as an introduction turned into a deep dive into the evolving environmental challenges we’re all facing. From Portland-specific issues to the broader implications of pests, diseases, and environmental pressures, Dominic sheds light on how these forces are reshaping ecosystems and impacting our daily lives. It’s a thought-provoking discussion that challenges us to see the world through a different lens.   Start your 7-day free trial of Mirai Mobile and explore all it has to offer!

    1h 22m

  7. APR 10

    Celebrating 15 Years of Mirai

    The 15th anniversary of Mirai marks a milestone in an ongoing journey of growth, creativity, and transformation. What began as a vision has become a dynamic ecosystem—shaped by a dedicated team, an ever-evolving facility, and a community that continues to expand the boundaries of bonsai. This episode honors the shared effort and collective spirit that have brought Mirai to this point. As the 16th year begins, it’s a moment to celebrate the progress and look forward to what’s still to come.   Start your 7-day free trial of Mirai Mobile and explore all it has to offer!

    59 min

  8. MAR 12

    Bristlecone Pines: A Deep Dive with Brian Smithers

    For those who care about ancient trees, this episode is a must-listen. Brian Smithers, research professor at Montana State University, shares deep insights into the Bristlecone Pines—the oldest living singular organism on Earth. Facing increasing environmental pressures, these trees reveal critical lessons about resilience and change. Brian’s open-minded approach and deep expertise make for an eye-opening conversation, packed with scientific insight and fresh perspectives. Buckle up—this one is dense with knowledge.    Learn more about Brian’s work here:  briansmithers.net gloriagreatbasin.org   Start your 7-day free trial of Mirai Mobile and explore all it has to offer!

    1h 40m
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4.8
out of 5
171 Ratings

About

Bonsai Mirai is a company, a place, a practice, an ecosystem of creators. This is our outlet for discussion of all things bonsai and beyond.

Information

  • Creator
    Bonsai Mirai
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Bonsai Mirai: Asymmetry

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