Michael Lane

  • My journey in bonsai began late in 2008, after receiving a small juniper as a gift. Following this tree’s untimely demise caused by my ignorance, I began looking for classes online and stumbled upon Wigert’s Bonsai in North Fort Myers Florida, and shortly after my first few visits, began working under the tutelage of Erik Wigert. After short period of time, I began assisting him in both traveling workshops, regular classes, and all aspects of the bonsai nursery.
  • 2010 – I was awarded a scholarship in the amount of $1000 by the Bonsai Societies of Florida, by placing first in the states annual styling competition.
  • Using this scholarship, I traveled with my teacher to Mexico for the 2010 FELAB convention where I met and learned from artists such as Mauro Stemberger, Min Lo, Robert Steven, Vlad Novak, and Enrique Castano.
  • 2012 – marked the year I began teaching, starting with several workshops and demonstrations throughout the state of Florida, as well as teaching a monthly help session aimed at providing continuing education for students finishing the beginner and intermediate classes.
  • Over the years I have dedicated myself to primarily shohin, and tropical bonsai design and have been working toward spreading their appeal and understanding.
  • I have displayed at the state level several times as well as having my work accepted to the U.S. National Bonsai show on two occasions.
  • Over the last 5 years I have traveled all over the country giving lectures, demonstrations, and exhibit critique. I have visited clubs in New York, Knoxville, San Antonio, Houston, Austin, and New Orleans as well as many other states and cities.
  • My work has had the honor of appearing in the popular publication Bonsai Focus on numerous occasions.
  • During the Pandemic I expanded my services to include online and zoom presentations and so, have engaged with and taught students all over the world. During this time, I continued traveling and did two, 15 day tours throughout Texas and Louisiana.
  • 2022-2023 marked the launch of our website and education center, kitsunebonsai.com. An online resource for classes, programs, and merchandise.
  • I have recently been invited to Hyderabad, India, to share my teachings, and have new tours booked to New England, and California as well as recurring classes in Austin, Houston, and New Orleans.