It's easiest to know a man best by what he loves -
In 2006, Eric got his first juniper bonsai tree and while lurking on BonsaiTalk (as Ang3lFir3) he met Victrinia and eventually came to Washington in 2007. They married in May of 2009. He joined her in her study at Elandan under Daniel Robinson and became a true 'Student of Dan' in that time, adopting his own irreverent and sometimes non-conformist style of bonsai design. His passion for teaching, humor, and deft hand with a die grinder make him a fun and engaging person to work with.
Eric regards Alaskan Yellow Cedar as his signature species. His ability to make compact foliage as easily as the pendulous foliage they are known for makes for beautiful design opportunities.
In 1984... the movie The Karate Kid changed my life. I was 13 years old and all I wanted to do was be all of the qualities of service, honor, and selflessness that Mr. Miyagi exemplified in his art and relationships. Eventually in 2006 I would get my courage up to try my hand at the art. I found an online bonsai community to help encourage me in my pursuit. (Yes, I still have that first tree... I keep it to keep me humble. It's pretty awful. lol Note to everyone... Blue Star Junipers are not great material for bonsai.)
Six months into my journey I would find my way to Elandan Gardens and into the hearts of the Robinson family. "If a girl were brave..." a phrase Daniel said to me early in my study became my mantra to never hesitate or hold back from what I believed was the right path for the tree in front of me.
Eric and I were married at Elandan Gardens in 2009, and doing bonsai together at a high level has always been a unique and wonderful place where our loves and relationship meet and thrive.
For me, everything about bonsai is rooted in creating community, art, and love.
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