GOLDEN STATE BONSAI FEDERATION
A non-profit 501(c) (3) educational organization
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Instructor Bios
Suthin Sukosolvisit, Headliner
International Bonsai Artist & Instructor
Suthin Sukosolvist Bonsai Studio Website
Suthin Sukosolvisit is widely recognized as one of the world’s premier bonsai artists. Renowned for his masterful sense of proportion, refinement, and intricate detail, Suthin has been shaping bonsai for over 45 years, beginning his journey in Thailand. Today, he and his wife, Dararat, operate Royal Bonsai Garden, Inc. in Stoughton, Massachusetts—a full-service bonsai nursery and educational hub. Their nursery boasts one of the East Coast’s finest selections of expertly styled bonsai.
A native of Thailand, Suthin brings deep expertise in tropical species and is especially celebrated for his exceptional shohin bonsai. His artistry also extends to Japanese black pine, Japanese maples, root-over-rock styles, and many other species. Suthin is a sought-after instructor across the United States, known for his clarity, generosity, and enthusiasm in sharing techniques and insights. He also curates and maintains numerous private collections.
Suthin’s work has earned numerous accolades. Most notably, he was awarded “The National Award: Finest Bonsai Masterpiece” at the 2014 U.S. National Bonsai Exhibition for his American elm. In 2021, all three judges at the U.S. National Bonsai Exhibition unanimously honored his large Sargent juniper with The National Award for Finest Bonsai, the exhibition’s highest recognition.
Whether teaching, exhibiting, or styling trees in his nursery, Suthin continues to inspire bonsai enthusiasts around the world with his precision, passion, and artistry.
Mauro Stemberger, Headliner
International Bonsai Artist, Instructor & Architect
Italian Bonsai Dream Website
Mauro Stemberger is a professional architect and internationally acclaimed bonsai artist based in Feltre, Italy. His bonsai journey began at the age of 14, when he developed a deep passion for the art and studied under some of Europe’s most respected bonsai masters. By 2005, Mauro was sharing his expertise through teaching and founded the Italian Bonsai Dream School, where he continues to guide students in creating and refining their own bonsai masterpieces.
Mauro is known for his remarkable collection of bonsai—primarily styled from wild, collected European trees—which he cultivates at his studio in the Italian Alps. His work is especially celebrated for transforming large, dramatic trees gathered from mountainous regions into refined, award-winning bonsai.
A former president of UBI (Unione Bonsaisti Italiani), Mauro also served as editor of the association’s magazine and has written extensively for bonsai publications across Europe and beyond. His thoughtful approach, architectural precision, and artistic vision are evident in every tree he styles.
Mauro has taught and demonstrated throughout the world, including the United States, where his creations have gone on to win major awards. In 2018, he published his first book and was also a featured demonstrator and judge at the 6th U.S. National Bonsai Exhibition.
Today, Mauro continues to share his knowledge and philosophy of bonsai with an international audience, inspiring enthusiasts with his dynamic teaching style and extraordinary trees.