EPISODE · Jun 15, 2026 · 1H 30M
#022 - Aarin Packard
from Bonsaigers' Conversations · host lorisdiotti
In this episode of Bonsaier’s Conversations, I sit down with Aarin Packard, curator of the Pacific Bonsai Museum in Washington, USA—one of the most important bonsai institutions in North America, known for its world-class collection and thought-provoking exhibitions.We explore Aarin’s journey as an artist and how his creative background continues to shape his curatorial vision. From rethinking how bonsai is presented to connecting the art form with broader cultural and social themes, Aarin shares what it means to lead a museum that is not just about display, but about education, dialogue, and innovation. The Pacific Bonsai Museum is recognized for pushing boundaries through experimental and narrative-driven exhibitions that expand how we understand bonsai today.A key focus of our conversation is “United Bonsai”, his current project inspired by the World Cup. Through this initiative, Aarin investigates how bonsai is practiced across different countries, exploring the subtle (and not so subtle) ways culture influences form, aesthetics, and artistic intention. It’s a fascinating look at bonsai as a truly global language—shaped by place, identity, and tradition.🎧 New episodes drop every Monday and are available on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts.—If you enjoy the show, don’t forget to follow and share it with fellow bonsai enthusiasts.
What this episode covers
In this episode of Bonsaier’s Conversations, I sit down with Aarin Packard, curator of the Pacific Bonsai Museum in Washington, USA—one of the most important bonsai institutions in North America, known for its world-class collection and thought-provoking exhibitions.We explore Aarin’s journey as an artist and how his creative background continues to shape his curatorial vision. From rethinking how bonsai is presented to connecting the art form with broader cultural and social themes, Aarin shares what it means to lead a museum that is not just about display, but about education, dialogue, and innovation. The Pacific Bonsai Museum is recognized for pushing boundaries through experimental and narrative-driven exhibitions that expand how we understand bonsai today.A key focus of our conversation is “United Bonsai”, his current project inspired by the World Cup. Through this initiative, Aarin investigates how bonsai is practiced across different countries, exploring the subtle (and not so subtle) ways culture influences form, aesthetics, and artistic intention. It’s a fascinating look at bonsai as a truly global language—shaped by place, identity, and tradition.🎧 New episodes drop every Monday and are available on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts.—If you enjoy the show, don’t forget to follow and share it with fellow bonsai enthusiasts.
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#022 - Aarin Packard
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