Bonsai Mirai: Asymmetry

Tales from the Covered Wagon (Pt. 1)

In part one of this two-part episode of Asymmetry, ride along with Ryan & Lime on a cross-country journey coming home to Portland from the U.S. National Bonsai Exhibition in Rochester, NY. They recap the National Exhibition and discuss their thoughts on the show, along with delving into the evolution and future of American and Canadian bonsai. Hosted by Ryan Neil Recorded by Michael Lime Allen Edited by Jesus Contreras

Sara Rayner

In this episode of Asymmetry, Ryan sits down with Sara Rayner, noted and revered bonsai ceramicist, to discuss the impact her work has had on American bonsai. When she began her ceramics career, her work was considered controversial: her work has a distinctive, strong aesthetic in contrast to quieter, more traditional Japanese work. When you see a Sara Rayner pot, you know it’s a Sara Rayner pot. In this conversation, understand the impact Sara’s work has had not only in the world of ceramics, but in the world of bonsai. Hosted by Ryan Neil Recorded by Michael Lime Allen Edited by Jesus Contreras

Bill Valavanis

In this episode of Asymmetry, Ryan sits down with Bill Valavanis, founder of the U.S. National Bonsai Exhibition. Bill's bonsai career spans 50 years, with countless publications to his name. Ryan & Bill explore deep questions for the world of bonsai: can traditional forms satiate a practitioner throughout their career? Where is bonsai headed in the United States, and what does that western influence mean for the art form? Where is bonsai headed in the world at large? This is a true meeting of the minds: two artists who have made a career and a life with their bonsai practice, exploring this historic art from different perspectives, and guiding the future of bonsai. Hosted by Ryan Neil Recorded & edited by Michael Lime Allen

Kendall Strautman

Kendall is a writer, digital producer, and developer for Mirai - the voice behind the Mirai Live cameras asking all your questions. In this podcast, Ryan, Lime, & Kendall chit-chat absurdities.

Adam Johnson

Longtime student and friend of Mirai Live, Adam Johnson, sits down with Ryan and Lime to get real about their hopes, aspirations, and fears involved in creating and working with living material, the challenges of using trees as a commodity, and how they are incredibly hyped on shinpaku junipers.

Todd Schlafer

Todd Schlafer is a bonsai professional based in Colorado. In this episode of asymmetry, Todd sits down with Ryan for another podcast in which they discuss the realities of being a practicing bonsai professional in the United States, and how the trees continue to refuel their creative fire.

Advanced Class Bonsai

In this episode of Asymmetry, Ryan engages in a discussion with his advanced class students. This is one of the largest podcast sessions to date, including some of Mirai's longest-standing supporters: Todd Schlafer, Will Kerns, Bill Cadman, and Eric Schikowski. Each of them shares personal anecdotes, their relationships with the practice of bonsai, and experiences with personal mentors.

Ryan and Lime

Ryan and Lime sit down and discuss bonsai, personal inspirations, soccer, and the complexities of life.

Austin Heitzman

Ryan and Lime sit down with long time friend of Mirai and renowned woodworker, Austin Heitzman. In this episode Austin shares some insight into his professional background/practice, intriguing anecdotes, and personal philosophies.

Oscar Eisenschmidt

Ryan sits down with the incredibly talented fabricator and friend of Mirai, Oscar Eisenschmidt. Oscar is the designer/fabricator behind the innovative monumental structures present in many of Ryan's exhibitions such as the Artisans Cup, Unbridled, and Spectrum. Oscar shares details about his eclectic background, inspirations and how they have led him to where he is today.