About Sofia Rossi
Sofia Rossi, a renowned bonsai artist from Tuscany, Italy, brings a fresh perspective to the art form, challenging traditional conventions and celebrating the unique beauty of native European trees. Growing up amidst the rolling hills and ancient olive groves of her homeland, Sofia developed a deep connection to the rugged landscapes and diverse flora of her region. While initially drawn to the elegance of Japanese bonsai, she soon felt a calling to incorporate the trees she knew and loved from her childhood into her art.
Sofia’s bonsai displays often feature species like olive, beech, and oak, showcasing their unique character, resilience, and the stories they carry within their gnarled trunks and windswept branches. She’s a passionate advocate for sustainable bonsai practices, believing that the art form should not come at the expense of nature. Sofia travels extensively throughout Europe, exploring ancient forests and collecting yamadori (trees collected from the wild), carefully selecting specimens that show the natural beauty and resilience she seeks to capture in her bonsai.
She teaches workshops on collecting, styling, and caring for yamadori in a way that respects the environment, emphasizing the importance of proper techniques and ethical sourcing. Sofia’s bonsai creations are not just about mimicking traditional styles but about showcasing the beauty of nature as it is, highlighting the unique characteristics of each tree and allowing its natural grace to shine through. Her bold vision and dedication to sustainability have made her a respected figure in the bonsai community, inspiring enthusiasts to explore the possibilities of working with native species and creating bonsai that reflect the beauty of their own landscapes.