Guest Artist: Mauro Stemberger

Mauro Stemberger is one of the most sought-after bonsai artists in the world. Born in 1978 in Feltre, Italy, he trained under masters including Hotsumi Terakawa, Marc Noelanders, and Salvatore Liporace. An architect by profession, Mauro founded the Italian Bonsai Dream in 2005 and the Italian Bonsai Dream School in 2011. He has been a BCI-certified bonsai instructor since 2008 and served as president of UBI (Italian Bonsai Association) from 2008-2010.

Mauro specializes in conifers — Pines, Junipers (Itoigawa, Sabina), and especially Larch — and is known for his unique styling approach and engaging teaching style. His accolades include a Gold Medal at the Noelanders Trophy, multiple international photo competition wins, and demonstrations at the most prestigious bonsai shows worldwide. He has over 105,000 followers on Instagram (@bonsaidream).