About BONSAI JOURNEY
Elle Nieto-Brodnick Bonsai Artist & Educator
Elle Nieto-Brodnick discovered her passion for bonsai during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic while actively working in healthcare. What began as a curiosity quickly evolved into a deep commitment to the art and practice of bonsai cultivation.
Her journey started with online videos and virtual lectures, eventually leading to in-person workshops with respected bonsai professionals such as Andy Smith, Owen Reich, Will Baddeley, Julian Tsai, and David Cutchin. Over the past five years, Elle has continued to refine her skills under the mentorship of internationally renowned artists including Bjorn Bjorholm, Mauro Stemberger, and Todd Schlafer.
Elle approaches bonsai with the discipline, patience, and humility the art demands. As a dedicated student and practitioner, she is continually honing her craft and expanding her understanding of both the technical and philosophical aspects of bonsai.
Today, Elle teaches beginner to intermediate students at The Hidden Gardens Bonsai, sharing her knowledge and encouraging others to find their own connection to the art. She has also led workshops and demonstrations for numerous organizations, including the Springfield Bonsai Society, Ann Arbor Bonsai Society, Green Witch Gardens, Midwest Bonsai Society, Dai Ichi Bonsai, Kofu Kai, California Bonsai Society, Baikoen Bonsai Club, Eastern Leaf Nursery, Kimura Garden Bonsai Kashi No Ki-En, Quad City Bonsai, and Wisco Bonsai.
As she continues to grow her presence in the bonsai community, Elle remains committed to the lifelong journey of learning, creating, and inspiring through bonsai.